Eco-Democracy

In this course we explore the field’s most important recent contributions to the study of political theory and the environment. We investigate the basis and scope of our obligations to the natural world; our obligations to one another with respect to the exploitation, degradation, and preservation of the natural environment; and our obligations to ourselves as individuals with respect to the natural environment. We then consider what political principles, institutions, and practices might best enable us to meet these obligations. Readings include Jane Bennett, Melissa Lane, John Dryzek, Cass Sunstein, Martha Nussbaum, Wendell Berry, Peter Singer, and others.