Human Dimensions of Ocean Conservation

Catalog description

The planet we call home is dominated by one feature: the oceans. This makes us Ocean People. In this course, we will unpack what that means by examining the historical and contemporary human relationship with the ocean. The ocean is a source of human culture, connection, and curiosity. It is also the site of past and present injustices. While focusing on contemporary conservation and management issues, we will also explore the complex interrelationships between human culture and society and ocean issues. These relationships are embedded in the broader issues of cultural values, social structures, and social change and subsequently have important impacts on planning, management, and policy. This course draws on diverse material, highlighting the necessity of multiple perspectives in addressing ocean conservation.