Environmental Sociology

George Wooddell

Though this course is conceived as an introduction to Environmental Sociology, it is graduate level and quite demanding. Readings are extensive on such subjects as basic ecology (findings and theory) environmental policy and law, environmental racism, environmental philosophy, environmentalism, impact assessment, risk, energy, agriculture, industry and economics. The course will be taught in a seminar format.

Required Texts:
• Environmental Science. 6th edition. Daniel D. Chiras
• Silent Spring. 40th edition. Rachel Carson
• Crimes Against Nature. Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
• Ishmael. Daniel Quinn
• Miscellaneous handouts.

Course Requirements:

Grading

• 40% of credit: Short written work (a page or two) is required at every meeting.
• 20% of credit: Two comprehensive essay exams of equal weight.
• 20% of credit: Marks every meeting for class participation.
• 20% of credit: Class paper.
• Bonus points: as per the assignments calendar (below) and as arise for special class projects. Bonus points may total but not exceed one half of a letter grade for the course added to whatever score emerged from the “regular” 100% scale items above.

For all written work (daily assignments, exams, class paper and bonus work)…

• “A” work is an excellent fulfillment of all that I asked for and additional merits out of the pure brilliance of the student.
• “B” work is an excellent fulfillment of all that I asked for. (Pardon the repeated dangling participles.)
• “C” work is a minimal fulfillment of all that I asked for.
• “D” work is a less then minimal fulfillment of all that I asked for.
• “F” work is a less than minimal fulfillment of only some of what I asked for.

Academic Integrity:

Tests may not be removed from the class. Students caught with old tests or any test outside the class room will be subject to the most severe academic penalties.

Any breach of honesty in academic conduct will be discouraged by the most severe academic penalties. These may include dismissal from the University. Students who are unclear about the general rules of academic integrity are welcome to come to office hours for an explanation, or to consult page 406 - 407, section V of the 1999 - 2001 Undergraduate Bulletin.

Emergency Evacuation Procedures: Students who may need assistance should identify themselves to the teaching faculty.

If you have comments or suggestions, email me at wooddell@louisiana.edu

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