How do you view nature and why does it matter? Over the centuries, the relationship between humans and nature has changed. How do you, as an individual, view nature? And in what way do you value it? Your perspective largely determines how you interact with life on Earth. But where does this personal view actually come from?
Your perception of nature is strongly influenced by your surroundings, by what you have learned from family, culture, religion, and science. Furthermore, other people’s perspectives can differ considerably. This can lead to tensions, especially when it comes to decisions about major environmental issues. Take climate change, for example: one may agree that action is needed but disagree on what kind of action should be taken.
This course discusses perspectives on nature from various disciplines (anthropology, philosophy, history, media studies, art, literature, and heritage). Students will learn to appreciate the scope of complex environmental issues, finding a voice to express their own views on these matters in a sophisticated, creative manner whilst recognizing and appreciating valid perspectives that others may have. Furthermore, it invites the students to transcend disciplinary boundaries and use creative mediums to develop a broader mind in approaches to study.
The course is aligned with the objectives of the Environmental Humanities Centre, CLUE+ and Sustainability Institute.
For more information and course details, go to 'Curriculum' at the top of the page.