SOC 430 Environmental Justice (3 SH)

This course provides an examination of structural patterns of injustice around environmental harms and benefits.  We examine the history and construction of environmental problems and paradigms and the development of an environmental justice discourse brought about through social movements.  Through selected case studies we explore an array of issues, including climate justice, electronic waste trade, water rights, urban greenspace, “natural” disaster, internal colonialism, and war.  The course is designed to complement and enrich students’ studies in a host of fields, including public health, urban planning, public administration, community organizing, humanitarian aid, engineering, and law.  Prioritized enrollment is given to students completing the environmental justice minor.  Prerequisite: junior or senior standing. (Spring 2022)