ANTH465

Introduces theory and methodology from ethnoecology, the study of human relationships with and knowledge about the environment. Students will examine human relationships with both biotic (e.g. plants and animals) and abiotic (e.g. glaciers, weather) elements of ecological systems to better understand how knowledge frameworks and cultural practices shape human experiences of the natural world. The history of ethnoecology as a discipline will be covered, before moving to case studies where different ecological knowledge systems come into contact via conservation projects, bioprospecting, and other contemporary issues. Involves both discussion and project-based learning with GIS, cultural domain analysis, and ethnographic methods.