JINS 392 - Nature and Human Nature

Nature and human nature examines the complex relationships between humans and the natural world - across historical time and from several disciplinary entry points – while guiding students towards greater familiarity and identification with the natural world around them. How has “Nature” shaped us? How has Homo sapiens influenced “Nature”? Our relationships with the non-human world will be examined objectively through selected readings, lectures, and writing assignments, as well as subjectively, through group discussions, journaling, creative writing, and direct outdoor experiences. The course tends to provide a structured opportunity for students to engage meaningfully with the natural world while exploring the scientific, esthetic and philosophical implications of doing so.

Prerequisite: Junior Status
Credits: 3
NOTE:
* This course fulfills the Junior Interdisciplinary Writing-Enhanced Seminar Interconnecting Perspective of the Liberal Studies Program.
** This course counts toward the 63-credit Liberal Arts and Sciences (LAS) graduation requirement.
*** This course is writing-enhanced.