AGS453 Human Ecology (PG) (8)
CSU Discipline Area: Agricultural and Horticultural Studies (AGHOR)
Duration: One session
Abstract:
The subject continues the exploration of the ecological paradigm commenced in the subject Introduction to Ecological Agriculture. One of the fundamental propositions underlying ecocentric thought is the empathetic connection between humankind and the environment. What is this connection and how does it differ from the paradigm that drives conventional forms of agriculture? This question will be addressed as students explore their value systems and modes of thinking, and how these impact on our land use decisions. Besides fostering self-knowledge the subject challenges students to develop the sensitivity, conceptual framework and interpersonal skills required to manage natural resources and people in an ecocentric way.
+ Subject Availability Modes and Locations
| Session 2 | |
|---|---|
| Distance * | Orange |
*This subject offering contains a residential school. Please view following information for further details.
Continuing students should consult the SAL for current offering details: AGS453
Where differences exist between the Handbook and the SAL, the SAL should be taken as containing the correct subject offering details.
Objectives:
Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:
- be able to analyse one's self in relation to the nexus with the wider environment
- be able to explain and evaluate dualities (opposites) and their relationship to human behaviour
- be able to explain and demonstrate an understanding of the notion of holism and holarchy and how they exist in stage theory
- be able to explain the emerge of varying life forms based on Wilber's model
- be able to relate Wilber's model to the ecology of agriculture
- be able to explain the evolution of ecological thought based on the writings of several key philosophers and apply the results
- be able to position ecological thought on a continuum of Environmentalism as proposed by O'Riordan and defend the position selected
- be able to analyse the role of different belief systems and their impact on individual and communal behaviour
- be able to evaluate and assess the relationship between values and behaviour
- be able to evaluate one's development in relation to the hierarchy of values
- be able to explain and demonstrate an understanding of the role of values in developing ecological literacy
- be able to explain wholism from the perspective of Goethe
- be able to reflect on the relationship between imagination and science having tested this relationship through project work
Syllabus:
The subject will cover the following topics:
Ecological philosophy
Ecological psychology
The concept of holism in agriculture
Residential School
This subject contains a optional 4 day residential school.
The purpose is to explore the ecopsychology and ecophilosophy of human ecology. Half of the school is in class, and the remainder is in the bush.
The information contained in the 2013 CSU Handbook was accurate at the date of publication: 24 April 2013. The University reserves the right to vary the information at any time without notice.