Module: EH7001-30 Environmental Humanities: Issues and Approaches

Level: 7

Credit Value: 30

Module Tutor: Kate Rigby

Module Tutor Contact Details: k.rigby@bathspa.ac.uk

1.Brief description and aims of module

This module provides an introduction to the Environmental Humanities by studying key concepts and issues through the differing lenses of cultural geography, environmental anthropology, environmental philosophy and environmental literary studies.

2.Outline syllabus

This module begins with an introduction to the Environmental Humanities in the context of current debates around the concept of the ‘Anthropocene’ i.e. the proposition that humans have become a geological force, altering the Earth in ways (largely deleterious to much human and nonhuman life) that will leave their mark in the geological record for millennia into the future. Proceeding from a consideration of the scientific evidence for this proposition, together with an introduction to the basics of ecology and conservation biology, the module explores the deeper questions of meaning, value and purpose posed by today’s complex socio-environmental problems: questions, e.g., concerning cultural assumptions about the nature of reality and human selfhood; our relations with other species and sense of place; our ethical orientations and religious beliefs; our socio-political systems and institutions of knowledge; our modes of communication and creative practices (along with those of other species). Such questions are addressed through a series of two to three week teaching blocks led by experts in the areas of cultural geography, philosophy, ethics and religion, anthropology, and literary studies, culminating in a consideration of how different disciplines and ways of knowing (nonmodern as well as modern) might be brought together to provide more comprehensive modes of understanding, and strategies for redressing, today’s grave socio- environmental problems.

3.Teaching and learning activities

This module is taught through a structured series of weekly two-hour seminars, incorporating some guest lectures, along with tutorial-style group discussion of set texts, and the ideas and issues that they raise. Three extra tutorials will also be offered to provide further assistance with research and writing skills appropriate to Level 7. In addition, a short excursion may be scheduled in order to consider the interaction of culture and environment in the context of a particular place over time.

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: Course Work
• Description: Reading journal (totalling 2,500 words)
• % Weighting: 30%

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: Course Work
• Description: 10 minute class presentation on major essay topic.
• % Weighting: 10%

Assessment Item 3:

• Assessment Type: Course Work
• Description: 5,000 word Essay
• % Weighting: 60%