WEST 4140 - Unnatural Disasters: Hurricane Katrina, Climate, and Our Future on a Changing Planet

3 Credits (Minimum) 3 Credits (Maximum)

Treating Hurricane Katrina and its aftermath as a springboard for discussion, this course will explore a range of themes regarding the political, economic, and ecological issues related to global climate change, one of the most pressing issues of our time. Readings and lectures will pay special attention to the role that categories such as race/ethnicity, class, gender, age, ableism and sexuality, etc. play in the disaster and response, especially in respect to issues of social and historical vulnerability; the political and social aftermath of the storm; and the cultural response to the destruction and the question of restoration and rebuilding. Prer., WEST 1010 (formerly WEST 2010). Meets with SOC 4140.