Critical Social Inquiry 0224 - Envm'tal Activism

This course will explore the legal regime in the United States in which citizens and activists work to protect public health and the environment, and various approaches to environmental activism. How does the law help protect us and our environment? What are its shortfalls? Who are the stakeholders in this system? What can you do to make change happen? We will explore the law and policy around major environmental issues including global climate change, mass toxic chemical exposure, environmental impacts of the industrial food system and more, through analyzing the different approaches, values and impacts of environmental activists dedicated to these issues. The different kinds of activism we will analyze in this course will include: 1. direct action and eco-terrorism; 2. playing insider politics; 3. grassroots activism; 4. conservation; 5. corporate social responsibility work, and; 6. art. In addition to assigned readings, students will watch a collection of topical environmental documentaries and films. Coursework will include two short response papers and a semester-long project on an environmental activist or activist group (including interviewing your subject) culminating in a final written report and in-class presentation.

Independent Work Multiple Cultural Perspectives Writing and Research 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 and group assignments.