Anthropology 317 - Seminar: The Air We Breathe--An Anthropology of Atmosphere

From air pollution to atmospheric carbon, from extreme weather events to respiratory viruses, the earth's atmosphere is currently intensely palpable. While these topics are typically the purview of natural scientists, they are also cultural phenomena worthy of anthropological exploration. This seminar explores this contemporary atmospheric moment while situating it in a historical context with readings that provide a multidisciplinary perspective traversing the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. Readings draw from anthropology, the history of science, literary studies, climate science, botany, and more. Discussions include wind, breathing, evapotranspiration, climate change, and utopia. Restrictions: Juniors and seniors only. Enrollment limited to 12. Instructor permission required.

[CE] JR/SR only