Population, Equity, and Environmental Change examines contemporary debates over the relationships among population growth, environmental change, and sustainability. Scientists agree that the ecosystems of planet Earth cannot long support the human species at its current levels of consumption. They argue that the human species has made itself a geological force, one whose impact on the planet might be compared to the earthquakes and floods that shaped its topography in prehistoric time. Though there is widespread agreement about the magnitude of this change, there is intense debate about how to characterize the crisis it poses. Some define it in terms of the limits of nature, terming it a mismatch between available resources and human numbers: it should be addressed as a “population problem.” Others define it in political terms as a crisis of distribution and social practice.

Course Requirements:

Grades will be determined on the basis of two short analytic papers (roughly 30%); weekly reading quizzes (roughly 25%); various active learning and “low stakes” writing exercises (roughly 30%); class participation (roughly 15%). The course may include a group project. Readings will be available on Canvas.

Intended Audience:

This course is open to all students. It is useful but definitely not required that students have taken POL 101 prior to enrolling in this course