ENVS 200 - Introduction to Environmental Studies

We will study a variety of perspectives on humans and nature, examining questions such as “Do non-human species, or features of the landscape, have intrinsic value?” and “Can (scientific) knowledge affect human behavior?” We will attempt to develop an understanding of the resources offered by humanities scholars and social and natural scientists for addressing such questions. Data-driven assessments available from scientists will be examined to characterize the state of our planetary inheritance. Particular topics addressed may include food production, loss of biological diversity, and energy generation/use. Public policy (including economic, cultural and sociological considerations) regarding these and other environmental issues like proliferation of industrial pollutants and conservation of endangered species will also be addressed. We intend to facilitate informed, critical, interdisciplinary reflection on central issues pertaining to the environment, in part by increasing empirical knowledge of these issues.

Credits: 3 hours
NOTE: This course counts toward the 63-hour Liberal Arts and Sciences (LAS) graduation requirement.
NOTE: This is a writing-enhanced course.