Brian
J. Gareau
Assistant
Professor of Sociology and International Studies
Department of Sociology
McGuinn Hall 412
Phone: 617-552-8148 / Fax: 617-552-4283
Areas of
Specialization:
Environmental
Sociology; Science, Knowledge & Technology; Globalization; Rural
Sociology/Agrofood Studies; Global Environmental Governance.
Course
Descriptions:
Environmental
Sociology (SC348/ IN348):
This course provides an overview
of environmental problems and issues through the lens of various perspectives
in social and environmental theory. Topics will include: economic globalization
and the environment; social causes and consequences of global climate
destabilization; population growth and over-consumption; the promise and limits
of technological solutions to environmental problems; links between poverty,
inequality, and environmental degradation; and competing visions of an
ecologically-sustainable society. The contributions and limits of existing
sociological theories in understanding environmental issues will be an
important theme throughout.
International
Studies Senior Seminar (SC530/ IN530):
This
seminar is required of seniors majoring in International Studies. It provides
participants with a common vocabulary for analyzing the current international
environment - politically, economically, environmentally, and socially. It also
examines how to integrate cultural questions and expression into the
discipline. Students will explore
possibilities for future global relationships in an informed and constructive
way and exchange their views, questions and research in an atmosphere of mutual
respect and trust.
Environmental
Studies: Select Topics (SC349):
This course explores how ecology,
technology, politics, economics, and culture intersect. By analyzing key
contemporary environmental debates, students develop skills necessary for investigating
any sophisticated social issue. Topics we cover: the environmental movement (is
it effective?); the sustainable development debate (the tension between
environmental protection and the plight of developing nations); capitalism and
technology (friends or foes of the environment?); global warming (where
science, economics, and politics collide). We employ a range of materials,
including participant accounts, media coverage, movies, and sociological
analyses. This course can build on but does not require prior coursework in
environmental studies or environmental sociology.
Links:
·
My more inclusive website
·
BC Department of Sociology homepage
·
BC International Studies Program homepage