ENVI 231(S) Political Ecology of International Biodiversity Conservation
This course will begin by exploring concepts of biological diversity and current threats and problems facing biodiversity, such as changing land use patterns, consumerism, genetic engineering, industrial agriculture, and invasive species. We will then examine competing notions of biodiversity conservation: why, where, what, who decides, and how best to conserve? What is the relationship between neo-liberal globalization and current conservation strategies? Are calls for increased conservation measures a result of economic-induced ecological degradation, or another form of development in line with neo-liberal paradigms of international donors (intergovernmental, NGOs, corporations)? Are rapidly expanding protected areas in developing countries the new colonialism driven by a globalization of western environmentalisms? What is the relationship between western science and traditional ecological knowledge regarding causes and solutions for biodiversity conservation? We will then examine the role of alternatives challenging conventional notions of conservation, such as bioregionalism, community-based strategies, participatory management, radical ecology and others.
Format: lecture/discussion. Requirements: multiple 5- to 8-page papers, plus occasional assignments based on readings. One long paper may be substituted for several short papers, with the permission of the instructor.
Prerequisites: Environmental Studies 101 or permission of instructor. Enrollment limit: 20 (expected: 15). This course satisfies the "Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences" requirement for the Environmental Studies concentration. Satisfies one semester of the Division II requirement.
Hour: 2:35-3:50 MR J. JONES