It is widely accepted in the scientific community that we have entered into a new geological era, the Anthropocene, which is characterize by pervasive human impact on several planetary systems, and which could profoundly disrupt the equilibrium of the last 11,000, during which humanity flourished. This raises profound questions about what should be done to preserve human well-being, biodiversity, and the integrity of natural systems, and about which values should guide policy and which ideals should govern individual lives. How much of nature should be protected from human disruption? Why should we care about biodiversity? Can we both promote human well-being and protect nature? Is environmental destruction a first world problem? Is colonialism the problem? Is capitalism the problem? What form of technology are appropriate responses to environmental problems? Questions such as these, and others, will be discussed.
This class will be conducted in English. All written assignment and oral presentations must also be completed in English.
- Trainer/in: Darrel Moellendorf