Special Topics in Environmental Policy and Culture (390-0-25)

Topic

Energy Narratives

Instructors

Hannah Glasson

Meeting Info

University Hall 412: Tues, Thurs 2:00PM - 3:20PM

Overview of class

Energy Narratives

Energy transitions are often described as technical and scientific achievements that occur when the inevitable growth and expansion of human civilization necessitates new technologies to provide energy. For instance, the transition to coal that took place during the Industrial Revolution is often portrayed as the result of technological invention and geological circumstance, rather than intentional political choices. Similarly, the ongoing effort to transition human societies to renewable energy in the present day is often understood as a challenge of scientific literacy and technological strategies, rather than one of political negotiation. This course examines how the technologies and social arrangements surrounding energy transitions become laden with political and cultural narratives that shape what is possible. We will discuss what truly just and liberatory energy futures might look like, in conversation with enduring debates between eco-modernism and eco-localism, techno-optimism and Luddhism, and other philosophical tensions. This course will include opportunities to pursue research, interact with guest speakers, and participate in immersive learning activities.