LV EN RU DE FR

Environmental Sociology

Course developer

Prior knowledge

PolZ5010, Public and Nongovernmental Sector

Soci5044, Rural Studies

Soci6013, Organization Studies

Course abstract

The aim of the study course is to gain knowledge about the interaction of the environment and society on a local, regional and global scale, as well as to develop an understanding of environmental discourses and to interpret them sociologically.
Contemporary natural environment would be subject to different influences of human activities, causing a wide variety of resonance in the society. Environmental Sociology explores the human dimension of environmental problems, the social impact of these problems and efforts to solve them.

Learning outcomes and their assessment

In-depth knowledge and understanding of the interaction between society and the environment, about the impact of human activities on the environment, understanding of environmental sociology concepts, theories and methods for the analysis of various processes (practical work).
Skills - is able to argue about various forms of interaction between society and the environment, the development of environmental policy and current problems, is able to identify them and offer possible solutions and to use the acquired theoretical knowledge in the analysis of environmental policy (practical work).
Competence to independently evaluate and analyze the interaction between society and the environment, is able to interpret it sociologically and offer solutions to reduce various environmental risks (practical work, presentation).

Course Content(Calendar)

1. Sociological research of human interaction with the environment (1h).
2. Environment and inequality (1h).
3. Environmental social movements (2h).
4. Environmental policy and governance (1h).
5. Environment and economy (2h)
6. Environmental health (1h).
7. Green lifestyle, its essence, variants (2h).
8. Public opinion research on the environment (2h).

List of seminar topics and practical work (12 h):
1. Theoretical approaches of environmental sociology: literature studies, discussion (2h).
2. Environmental movements and environmental organizations (2h).
3. Consumer society and environment (2h).
4. Research into environmental views of different societies, social groups etc. (2h).
5. Review, analysis, discussion of the latest international research (2h).
6. Research and problems in Latvia, discussion.(2h).

Part-time distance learning:
All topics specified for full-time studies are covered, but the number of contact hours is reduced to half of the number spcified for full-time studies.

Requirements for awarding credit points

Formal test. The test is passed upon completion of 60% of the tasks.

Study process in part-time distance learning is organised in accordance with the Order of the Vice-Rector of Studies No. 2.4.-5/59 On distance learning procedures at LBTU. Study courses are scheduled for each semester according to the study plan. The students learn the topics included in the study course independently, using the materials created and placed by the lecturer in the e-studies (Moodle). Feedback on the learning of lecture and seminar topics in distance learning is organised in the form of self-assessment tests, discussion forums and independent work, as well as in face-to-face or online consultations, lectures and final examinations according to the timetable.

Description of the organization and tasks of students’ independent work

The study course evaluates the acquisition of literature, participation in seminars and discussions, development of independent work, their results and presentations. The proportion of evaluations of independent work is 30%, 30% and 40%.

Criteria for Evaluating Learning Outcomes

Formal test. The test is passed upon completion of 60% of the tasks.

Compulsory reading

1.Hannigan J. Environmental Sociology. 2nd edition. London and New York: Routledge, 2006. 209 p. ISBN10: 0-415-35512-5 (Hbk) (e-book) Pieejams: https://www.nile-center.com/uploads/P2RQPC32H6T8CWP.pdf
2.Gunters P. Zilā ekonomika. Rīga: Zvaigzne ABC, 2018. 319. lpp
3.Costanza R. Addicted to Growth: Societal Therapy for a Sustainable Wellbeing Future. London; NY: Routledge, 2023. 136 p. ISBN: 978-1-032-00334-4
4.Kļaviņš A., Zaļoksnis J. (red.) Vide un ilgtspējīga attīstība, Rīga, Latvijas Universitāte, 2010. 334 lpp

Further reading

1.Kropp C., Antoni-Komar I., Sage C. Food System Transformations: Social Movements, Local Economies, Collaborative Networks. New York, NY: Routledge, 2021. 218 lpp., ISBN: 978-0-367-67422-9
2.WinklerPrins Antoinette M.G.A. Global Urban Agriculture. Boston, MA: CABI, 2017. 255 p. ISBN:978-1-78064-732-6
3.Vide un ekonomika. Dz. Atstāja, Dž. Dimante u.c. Rīga: Latvijas Universitāte, 2011. 255 lpp.
4. Caniglia B.S., Jorgenson A., Malin S.A., Peek L., Pellow D.N., Huang X., (Eds) Handbook of Environmental Studies, Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2021, 2021, 536 p. (eBook) https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-77712-8
5.Beck U. Risk Society. Towards a New Modernity. London: Sage, 1992.

Periodicals and other sources

1. Environmental Sociology. Pieejams: http://www.tandfonline.com/pricing/journal/rens20
2. Ecology and Society. Pieejams: http://www.ecologyandsociety.org/
3. Environmental communication. Pieejams: http://www.tandfonline.com/toc/renc20/current

4. Vides Vēstis. Pieejams: http://www.videsvestis.lv/

Notes

Compulsory study course in the academic master study program "Sociology of Organizations and Public Administration".