Course Info: CSI-0237

CourseCSI-0237 Environmental Activism
Long TitleU.S. Environmental Law and Policy: The Role of Activism
Term2016S
Note(s) Textbook information
Meeting InfoEmily Dickinson Hall 2 on M,W from 4:00-5:20
FacultyKelly Bitov
Capacity25
Available9
Waitlist0
Distribution(s)
Cumulative Skill(s)Independent Work
Multiple Cultural Perspectives
Writing and Research
Additional Info
Description

This course will explore the legal regime in the United States in which citizens and activists work to protect public health and the environment, and various approaches to environmental activism. How does the law help protect us and our environment? What are its shortfalls? Who are the stakeholders in this system? What can you do to make change happen? We will explore the law and policy around major environmental issues including global climate change, mass toxic chemical exposure, environmental impacts of the industrial food system and more, through analyzing the different approaches, values and impacts of environmental activists dedicated to these issues. The different kinds of activism we will analyze in this course include: 1. direct action and eco-terrorism; 2. playing "insider politics"; 3. grassroots activism; 4. conservation; 5. corporate social responsibility work; 6. litigation, and; 7. art. In addition to assigned readings, students will watch a collection of topical environmental documentaries and films. Coursework will include two short response papers and a semester-long project on an environmental activist or activist group (including interviewing your subject) culminating in a final written report and in-class presentation.