The History of Extinction

This seminar explores the history of animals and people that are no more or whose existence is threatened. To come to terms with these histories, we will study classification of species and cultures, frontiers of exploitation and appropriation, and violence against lives and ways of life. Extinction itself is also an idea: when is it just an evolutionary phenomenon and when is it a historical moment worth marking? We will consider claims about intervention for the good of humans or others. Finally, we will observe forms of mourning. Course requirements include a major independent research project.