Special Topics in Environmental Policy and Culture (390-0-27)

Topic

Biocultural Perspectives on Water Insecurity

Instructors

Sera Young
847/467-2174
1819 Hinman Avenue

Meeting Info

Parkes Hall 212: Tues, Thurs 12:30PM - 1:50PM

Overview of class

Biocultural Perspectives on Water Insecurity
Biocultural Perspectives on Water Insecurity
Biocultural Perspectives on Water Insecurity
Biocultural Perspectives on Water Insecurity

The first objective of this course is to introduce students to the many ways that water impacts humans around the world. We will discuss what the international recommendations for safely managed water are and the health and social consequences of water insecurity. The second objective is to explore why there is such variety in water insecurity worldwide. Influences on access to water will be broadly considered; we will draw on literature in global health, ethnography, the life sciences, and public policy. These discussions will be guided by the socio-ecological framework, in which dimensions ranging from the individual to the geopolitical are considered. The third objective is to develop critical thinking and writing abilities to reflect on the multi-dimensional causes and consequences of water insecurity and the appropriateness of potential solutions. This will be accomplished through readings and documentaries that we have lovingly selected, writing weekly reflection pieces, preparing a short in-class presentation on recent media, and writing an OpEd.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this course, you should be able to… 1. Understand and articulately discuss the social and health impacts of water security. 2. Identify and critically analyze key actors, institutions, and policies that influence water security. 3. Recognize, critically assess, and communicate the value of qualitative and quantitative data for understanding causes and consequences of water security. 4. Evaluate metrics and interventions related to water insecurity from anthropological and public health perspectives.

Class Materials (Required)

Drinking Water: A history, by James Salzman (ISBN-13 9781468314908) & articles on canvas

Class Attributes

Social and Behavioral Science Foundational Discipl
Social & Behavioral Sciences Distro Area