Critical Energy Studies

3 Credits · Level: Undergraduate

This seminar will introduce students to the vibrant interdisciplinary field of critical energy studies, sometimes referred to as energy humanities, and prepare them to undertake research in energy studies. Together, we will consider how energy systems shape and are in turn shaped by lived experiences, human cultures, and historical processes. We will also work to decenter the historical focus on North Atlantic in energy studies to instead foreground Global South and Fourth World contexts, perspectives, and methodologies. Through this shift in focus, we will apply a critical and imaginative lens to common concepts in energy studies such as “energy transition,” “sustainability,” and “energy futures.” By engaging with course readings, discussions, and assignments, students will develop dexterity in analyzing energy across multiple critical and disciplinary registers and in reading for energy in different media and objects. Students will also learn to articulate original research questions in energy humanities and develop ethical and sound research strategies to answer them. This course includes required experiential learning activities, which will take place both on campus and in other areas of Doha. Students with questions or concerns about these activities should contact the instructors before enrolling.