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CS92PROD
Science of Sustainability

PHYS 105
Fall 2019 not offered
Crosslisting: ENVS 235
Certificates: Civic Engagement, Civic Engagement Minor, Environmental Studies, Environmental Studies Minor

What is sustainability? It most certainly is not switching light bulbs or "buying organic," although perhaps those activities contribute to sustainability. The task for our course will be to undertake a scientific inquiry into the conditions for an enduring human presence on Earth. To do so, we must begin with physical principles, examining both what humans require and demand from the world and what the world is capable of providing. Our inquiry will broaden to include chemical and ecological principles, ultimately asking what the social sciences can do to illuminate the problem without violating the physical constraints nature imposes.

Students should have a familiarity with quantitative and algebraic concepts and, above all, a desire to incorporate quantitative thinking into verbal discourse. Writing is also a core element of the course with frequent writing assignments in various formats.
Credit: .5 Gen Ed Area Dept: NSM PHYS
Course Format: Lecture / DiscussionGrading Mode: Student Option
Level: UGRD Prerequisites: None
Fulfills a Major Requirement for: (CIVI-MN)(CWRC)(ENVS-MN)(ENVS)(HRAD-MN)

Last Updated on MAR-28-2024
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