The University of New South Wales

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Environment, Technology and Politics - HPSC2500
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Faculty: Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences
 
 
School:  School of History and Philosophy
 
 
Course Outline: See below
 
 
Campus: Kensington Campus
 
 
Career: Undergraduate
 
 
Units of Credit: 6
 
 
EFTSL: 0.12500 (more info)
 
 
Indicative Contact Hours per Week: 3
 
 
Enrolment Requirements:
 
 
Prerequisite: 36 units of credit
 
 
Equivalent: PHIL2420
 
 
Fee Band: 2 (more info)
 
 
Further Information: See Class Timetable
 
 

Description

Provides historical, social and political background for understanding the 'social crisis of the environment' - often blamed on the technological systems of 'Western Industrialised Society'. Also examines alternative visions such as 'Deep Ecology', 'Ecofeminism', and 'Ecological Democracy'. Key developments of thought and action in Western society are related to present day environmental politics. Topics include: pre-industrial developments in Europe; the ideas of the Enlightenment; changing images of nature; ecological impacts of industrialisation; globalisation; and public participation. Examples are drawn from the politics of energy systems, the relationship between agriculture and civilisation, and the politics of waste.


Learning Outcomes

After completing this course, students should:
  • Understand and be able to explain the important elements of contemporary debates about environmental politics
  • Identify and discuss key historical developments that have driven these debates
  • Provide a critique of Western views of the human-nature relationship, and science's roles in that relationship
  • Assess the role of the humanities and social sciences in environmental analysis
  • Become better able to communicate critical thinking in both written and spoken formats, for participation in policy debate and other purposes.

Assessment

  • Journal - 50%
  • Tutorial exercises - 20%
  • Final essay (2500 words) - 30%

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© The University of New South Wales (CRICOS Provider No.: 00098G), 2004-2011. The information contained in this Handbook is indicative only. While every effort is made to keep this information up-to-date, the University reserves the right to discontinue or vary arrangements, programs and courses at any time without notice and at its discretion. While the University will try to avoid or minimise any inconvenience, changes may also be made to programs, courses and staff after enrolment. The University may also set limits on the number of students in a course.