Prof. Peter B. deMenocal

V1003: Climate & Society: Case Studies

We live in interesting times, environmentally-speaking.

This course explores the interface between science and society in the study of environmental risks and risk management.

Developed for first- and second-year undergraduates, the course investigates the complex - but increasingly relevant - interactions between the scientific enterprise, which quantifies and monitors climate change, and political entities which seek to mitigate socioeconomic risks resulting from climate changes.

The course focuses on three case study examples - ozone depletion, El Niño, and global warming. Lectures on the scientific principles and observations that define the environmental issue are followed by discussion of environmental policies to mitigate risk.

Course format: Bi-weekly lectures with interactive group discussions . There will bethree exams, one after each module, and six homoework assignments.

Monday and Wednesday • 8:40 - 9:55 am • 303 Hamilton

Course credit: 3 points (qualifies for science requirement). Register for this course

Updated: August 23, 2012