136-335 A History of Nature (Science 3)

Students cannot gain credit for both this subject and 136-215/315 before 1999 or 136-035 after 1998. Only available at science third year; for all other levels see 136-035 A History of Nature. This subject is based on 136-035 but involves additional work.

Two second-year HPS subjects.

This subject traces some of the historical changes in scientific and environmental thought that occurred over the last 500 years, as Europeans spread out from the continent during the voyages of discovery, and discovered new frontiers that challenged their scientific and social beliefs. We will especially follow the changes in the environmental sciences that accompanied these voyages as notions of geography, natural history, evolutionary biology, geology and ecology were transformed. We will also examine some recent examples of new understandings of 'nature'. Case studies will include America, Australia, and other parts of the colonial world including the Pacific islands. Environmental issues ranging from introduced species, sustainability, resource management, pollution, overpopulation, environmental engineering and environmental philosophies will also be examined. This subject should be of interest to students who would like to learn more about the origins of the environmental sciences and our ongoing attempts to live within a changing environment.

• develop skills in written and oral communication;

• conduct independent research;

• make appropriate use of primary and secondary sources in mounting an argument;

• form defensible judgements based on a critical evaluation of conflicting arguments.

Written work totalling 6000 words for third-year Science students comprising a tutorial paper of 1000 words 20% (due one week after presentation), a research essay of 3000 words 50% (due during the examination period), a 2000-word project on an advanced topic 20% (due during the examination period), class participation and contribution 10%. A hurdle requirement of attendance at nine tutorials.

A reading pack will be available for purchase from the University Book Shop.