121-017 Society and Environments

Formerly available as 121-208/308. Students who have completed 121-208 or 121-308 are not eligible to enrol in this subject.

Completion of 100 points of first and/or second year subjects including at least 50 points at first year level from approved subjects in your home faculty.

This subject is concerned with the complex and interrelated political, socioeconomic, technological, scientific and cultural factors that influence human use of natural resources. We critically assess the different types of responses that individuals, organizations, and political leaders can make to the environmental changes they generate. Our primary focus is on the human dimensions of environmental issues including attention to scientific assessment and monitoring. Our focus is international, with examples drawn from both the developed and developing world, and in particular from Australasia, Europe, the United States, and Africa. 'Mainstreaming' sustainable resource use and environmental management in everyday life involves making informed decisions about our own and others' lifestyles. Making these decisions is always challenging-and they can be controversial, risky, and sometimes uncomfortable or based on necessity. The subject uses a variety of instructional approaches to introduce you to key environmental issues and debates.

• gain an understanding of the concept of wilderness, tourism and the consumption of nature and environmental sub-culture and radical environmentalisms.

A 1.5-hour test 40% (due at the end of semester), a major essay of 2000 words 40% (due in week 9) and tutorial exercises of 500 words 10%.