ESF-5480: Natural/Human Landscape Alaska

Perceptions of Alaska range from an unspoiled wilderness whose scale is unparalleled in North America, to a vast territory of natural resources that demand exploitation. Neither extreme defines the social character of the state, and neither acknowledges the region as homeland to an ancient and diverse array of indigenous cultures. This field study trip will focus on the physical, cultural, and ecological landscapes of Alaska in the contexts of conflicting notions of pristine environment, unparalleled natural laboratory, and seemingly limitless resource. The degree to which these ideals define the state and shape its future is aggressively contended in the political, economic, and social arenas, while evidence of past and present global environmental change is ubiquitous and profound. The immensity, austere beauty, and living natural history of Alaska provide the backdrop for our investigations of America’s last frontier.
Min. Credits: 3.0
Credit Basis: Semester credit
Location(s): Antioch Univ New England
Method(s): Field Study,Classroom
Faculty Consent Required: N
Program Approval Required: N
Course Type Environmental Studies and Sustainability