Cognitive Science 0146 - Future of Food

Nothing in life is more important than food. But billions of people don't have enough, the way we grow food poses dramatic challenges to the environment, and our collective health and quality of life are in the balance. This course will take a critical multidisciplinary look at the past, present and future of food, farming and eating. Are our current food sources sustainable? What are the ecological impacts of production? What will be the impact of climate change? Can we find new plant and animal species that will enhance our food 'security'? Is genetic modification of food really a bad idea? In what ways might alternative production systems, such as small scale, local and organic farms provide more sustainable solutions? Could the globalization of technology and information change the way we farm? How can education about diet and nutrition affect our behavior? How many farms and how many farmers? Class will meet twice per week for lectures, discussions, small group work and projects.

Mind, Brain, and Information Physical and Biological Sciences Writing and Research Quantitative Skills Independent Work In this course, students are expected to spend at least six to eight hours a week of preparation and work outside of class time. This time includes reading, writing, research.