Seminar on Philosophy, Politics, and the Environment

Much public discourse that touches upon the relationship of human society to the natural environment acknowledges the fundamental connection between people and the environment, but avoids or simplifies discussion of broader philosophical and political views of what this relationship is, has been, and ought to be. Expansive conceptual categories of the study of politics, economics, and society, such as capitalism, socialism, democracy, human welfare, and distribution, are often left out entirely, or used quickly and not defined clearly. In thinking big about human society and the natural world, what is ideal, and what is possible? This once-weekly seminar aims to help students develop the breadth and depth of their thinking about the relationship of human society to nature at the level of political, social, and economic philosophy. It will provide an organized setting for the understanding and critical discussion of these abstract but sometimes world-shaping ideas. Particular attention will be paid to the wide range of such views put forth in recent history, the various assumptions built into each view, and to the differing levels of influence and political effectiveness achieved by each. Discussions will be based on a weekly reading from a philosophically oriented work about humanity and the environment, such as a book chapter or a piece of long-form journalism. Grading/credit based on weekly participation and a short reflective paper.