(Elective Course)
The “Social Ecology and Environment” course, offered in the 8th semester of the BBA program at colleges affiliated with Pokhara University, is designed to provide students with a holistic understanding of the intricate relationships between society, ecology, and the environment. This course delves into key topics such as sustainable development, environmental policies, and the impact of human activities on ecological systems. Through a detailed syllabus, students will explore critical issues like climate change, resource management, and social equity, equipping them with the analytical skills necessary to assess environmental challenges and develop effective strategies for promoting sustainability.
The “Social Ecology and Environment” course equips students with an understanding of the interactions between human societies and ecological systems in Nepal. It enhances their analytical skills to assess human impacts on the environment, preparing them for informed decision-making in sustainable development.
Table of Contents
Course Objectives
The objective of this course is to provide students with insights into the dynamics of human-environment interactions in Nepal. The ecology of human societies is about connections between ecological and human social, cultural, and organizational processes. It is a very broad and general subject that crosses numerous scientific disciplines. It therefore has to be approached in a broad and general way, with an emphasis on theoretical ideas.
Course Description
The core theme of social ecology and environment course is to understand the concept and quality of people–environment relationships. The course is designed around the main themes like environment, poverty and development; risk and adaptation to natural hazards and climate change;conservation, deforestation and biodiversity; and issues related to environmental policies and programs.
Course Outcomes
By the end of the course, students should be able to:
Concept and Core Principles of Social Ecology and Environment
Social ecology examines the relationships between human societies and their environments, emphasizing that social structures and ecological systems are interconnected. Core principles include the recognition of interdependence, the importance of social justice, and the need for sustainable practices that respect both human and ecological well-being.
Current Environmental Issues
This section addresses pressing environmental challenges such as climate change, deforestation, pollution, and biodiversity loss. Students will explore these issues through the lens of social ecological concepts, understanding how social behaviours, economic systems, and cultural values contribute to environmental degradation and how they can be leveraged for positive change.
Major Approaches to Integrate Social and Ecological Systems
Various frameworks, such as systems thinking, ecological economics, and participatory governance, will be discussed. These approaches emphasize the need to view human and natural systems as interconnected, promoting collaborative strategies that consider both ecological health and social equity.
Multidimensional Structure of Human Environment
This topic explores the complex layers of human-environment interactions, including cultural, economic, political, and ecological dimensions. Students will learn how these layers influence each other and shape environmental outcomes, highlighting the need for holistic approaches to environmental management.
Strengths and Weaknesses of Different Approaches
An analysis of various methodologies, such as top-down versus bottom-up approaches, will be conducted. Students will evaluate how these strategies can effectively address environmental change, considering their advantages and limitations in fostering sustainable practices and resilience.
Purposeful Socio-Ecological Change and Awareness
This section focuses on what constitutes meaningful socio-ecological change, including community engagement, education, and advocacy. Students will explore how policy, management strategies, and grassroots movements can facilitate awareness and drive transformative change in environmental practices.
Ecological Culture as a Harmonizing Force
The course will conclude with an examination of ecological culture, which promotes a harmonious relationship between society and nature. Students will learn how cultural values, traditions, and practices can foster respect for the environment and encourage sustainable living, ultimately contributing to a more balanced coexistence between human and natural systems.
Course Contents
The following themes or topics are included:
- Concept of social ecology
- Core principles of social ecology
- Human-environment system and transactions
- Multidimensional structure of human environment
- Concept of ecosystem; various ecosystems and their features
- Social hierarchy and domination over resources
- Social culture and economic relationship
- Present day socio-ecological crisis
- Environment and public policy
- Global environmental change
- Social Impact Assessment
- Ecological awareness
- Sustainability of social ecological system
- Ecological culture as a means of harmonizing interactions between society and nature.
References
- Kogent, Energy, Environment, Ecology and Society. Wiley India, New Delhi.
- Harper, C. L. Environment & Society, Pearson/Prentice Hall
- Sutton, M. Q.and Anderson, E. N. Introduction to Cultural Ecology, Altamira Press
- Rajagopalan, R. Environmental Studies: From Crisis to Cure. Oxford University Press. New Delhi.
- Sankar, A. Environmental Management. Oxford University Press. New Delhi.
- DeSimone, L. D. and Popoff, F. Eco-efficiency: The Business Link to Sustainable Development. MIT Press.