121-017 Society and Environments

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 aims to think critically and rigorously about the relationship between social and natural worlds. Its primary purpose is to question the idea that the environment exists outside of, and independent from, the realms of science, culture, politics and economy. Students will be introduced to different conceptual frameworks for understanding the environment as a social entity; to the processes by which capitalism and science structures social and environmental relations; and to alternative modes of living in, and thinking about, the environment. These broad themes will be addressed through engaging examples from Australia and beyond. Particular attention will be given to the concept of 'wilderness'; the postcolonial nature of the zoo; restoration ecology; ecotourism; the politics of visualising nature (e.g. through wildlife documentary); the 'new natures' of genetic modification; and ideas about 'environmental justice'.

• be capable of critical reading;

• be capable of thinking, writing and speaking in theorectical terms;

• develop presentation skills;

• develop skills in written communication;

• be capable of approaching research problems in the field.

A field report of 1500 words due by end of week 4 (30%); an essay of 2500 words due at the end of week 10 (60%); a practical presentation and participation (10%).