Course Catalog

This course introduces students to the debate surrounding the topic of “climate change” and will focus on three primary questions: 1) Is the climate changing? 2) Do human activities influence climate change in measurable ways? 3) Can and should action be taken to mitigate or ameliorate the perceived climate changes? This course will examine, via discussion, analyses of primary and secondary sources, modeling exercises, student writing and occasional guest lectures, the scientific, political, economic and psychological factors that influence the modern discourse involving climate change. The competing interests in this debate as well as the complexity of issues relevant to the discussion make the material for this course timely, relevant and controversial. Students in the course will be encouraged to put aside their preconceived notions and view the topics discussed through a critical and objective lens.