【Course description】
The goal of this course is to raise sensitivities for the interdependence of ecosystems, economic systems, and social systems. Particular focus is given to the concept of social sustainability, which refers to processes that generate social health and wellbeing as well as the institutions that facilitate environmental and economic sustainability now and for the future. Based on the reading materials listed in this syllabus, we will work together to clarify and develop our joint understanding of the concept of social sustainability by surveying possible definitions and measurements of social sustainability; investigating the relationship between social sustainability and other aspects of sustainability. Specific topics to be explored may include: the natural and social scientific principles and theories underlying sustainability; the different and often conflicting perspectives of “sustainable development; the discourse on what is to be sustained; how to quantify the impacts of lifestyle choices on the environment and resource use; and philosophical and practical approaches for achieving sustainable lifestyles and socio-ecological systems.