This course is designed to draw attention to both the positive and negative ways in which environmental and social justice issues are related. The U.N. Universal Declaration of Human Rights, The Rio Declaration, and the Earth Charter will serve as a framework for understanding the connection between human and environmental rights. We will explore global, domestic, and local examples of how issues such as environmental racism compound other issues like poverty and how population growth, land use, resource depletion, and food production methods impact human rights issues, regardless of race and socio-economic status. More importantly, the class will examine examples of grassroots movements that successfully overcame injustices and ways in which consumer and political choices play a role in the humanity-environment relationship. Finally, we will explore the concepts of biophelia (the psychological and developmental need for nature) and ecopedagogy (the betterment of self and society through using ecology to promote critical thinking skills). The goal of the course is to leave students feeling concerned, but also informed and empowered in knowing how sustainably-minded choices lead to social justice. The course readings consist of short excerpts from research papers as well as recent and current articles from local, national, and international news sources. All readings are available online by clicking on their titles on the readings page of this website except Richard Louve's Last Child in the Woods, which considering we will not be discussing the book until the last two weeks of class, can be checked out of any local library (although it is a good book worthy of purchasing). As readings and videos are assigned, students are asked to post comments (see syllabus on readings page) and bring their thoughts and questions to class for use in group discussions. This will help ensure the course is relevant to all participants and will encourage critical dialogue. I will also post discussion questions relative to each week's readings to provide food for thought for our class discussions. Additionally, guest speakers from various Chicago-based organizations will be invited to discuss the work they are doing and how we can get involved. |