Course code:

HS3103

Level:

M - Intermediate

Class size limit:

18

Meets the following requirements:

  • HS - Human Studies

Typically offered:

Upon occasion

This course explores politics of the terrestrial, of the earth and its defenders, through lenses of both theory and practice. Through their writings and, where possible, in direct conversation, we interact with activists and movements involved in struggles to protect earth, land, livelihoods, and community, and those actively working to build alternatives to ways of being in the world that they are struggling against. We also read theoretical reflections on these struggles, drawing from scholars in the fields of political ecology, political ontology, and political economy, among others. Locally rooted activities take place within global economic and political contexts – markets, international treaties, and other spaces and places where local and global come into contact, where ontologies collide, and where different forms of power are produced and interact across distances. Course materials and discussion will explore these global contexts, concrete ways and means by which economic and political power is contested in these spaces, and ongoing experiments with and strivings toward a different world, one where many worlds may fit. Topics explored include resistance against mining and other extractive industries, pipeline fights, land grabbing for agro-industrial expansion, carbon and biodiversity offset markets, and geoengineering. Evaluation in the class will be based on preparation for and participation in class discussions, regular reflective essays on readings, and a final extended essay, presentation, or podcast on some aspect of terrestrial politics.

Prerequisites:

None 

Always visit the Registrar's Office for the official course catalog and schedules.