In this course we will examine the political problems and the politics of natural resource use and management. We will analyse and evaluate the socio­cultural, economic, scientific, ethical and political underpinnings of environmental issues that fundamentally shape the environmental problematique. We will pay particular attention to the theoretical foundations of environmental policy and administration, and learn to think analytically and creatively about the creation and implementation of environmental policy at multiple levels. In doing so, we will examine the challenges and complexities of issues such as climate change, sustainable development, gender and environment, and citizenship. The fundamental objective of this course is to facilitate critical thinking and broad understanding of the complexity and breadth of environmental politics and policy.

As a postgraduate paper, class meetings will involve intensive discussion. I believe that learning happens best when students are actively involved in the learning process through participation in classroom discussions and debates about readings, case studies, films and current affairs. In addition to the course materials provided for us to read and discuss, I encourage you to bring news items, video­ clips, music, links to websites, and other materials that are relevant to our thinking about environmental politics and policies.

Rather than mere comprehension of facts and memorisation of details, we will emphasise higher level cognitive skills such as application, analysis, evaluation, and synthesis. This paper is offered on the assumption that every student is here to learn. Therefore, I expect all students to read assigned materials and to complete writing tasks on time. Part of the course grade will depend on whether students live up to these obligations.

Please plan on doing the following to ensure you get the most out of this paper:

Familiarise yourself with this paper outline, paper requirements and expectations, and all assessments.

Read all assigned materials on time—before coming to class.

Oral and written communication skills are an essential part of education. This paper will help you develop and hone these skills. These skills are not only important in this paper but will be beneficial in your future career and your role as a citizen. I will be as helpful as I can in providing specific suggestions, comments, and encouragement.

In addition to attending these classes, students will be expected to complete assignments and read materials as indicated below. The expected workload for the paper is an average of about 20 hours per week.

There are no prerequisites for this paper other than an interest in the subject matter, college level reading and writing skills, and a willingness to work and to participate actively.

Protocol

Many of the topics we cover this semester will generate active discussion, questioning, and dialogue. I encourage you to present a range of perspectives, positions, stories and experiences for the consideration of all of us, subject to time availability. We must, however, observe the following conventions in all class meetings:

1.ACTIVE LISTENING—hearing is not the same as listening. Conscious attention to a speaker’s words and potential meanings is essential.

2.RESPECT—showing consideration for alternative viewpoints in a manner which continues the dialogue without denigrating the dignity of other participants.

3.REFLEXIVITY—a willingness to employ self­-critique and consider collegial constructive criticism.

The paper offers online support through Moodle. Moodle is available on the university website. The paper outline, all lecture notes, and additional resources are available on the POLSC537-­22A Moodle site.

In addition to attending weekly classes, students will be expected to complete assignments and read materials as indicated. The expected workload for the paper is an average of about 20 hours per week.