Global Environmental Politics (UoA)

Is climate change killing the earth? Are there too many people; or too few people with too much? Do animals have rights? Is violence justified to save the planet? Are we facing nuclear Armageddon? What is environmental justice and security? How do we fight for our future? Is access to water a Human Right? Will humans become extinct? Can we change the world to return it from the brink? Environmental movements are among the most successful progressive voices in politics and international relations in the 21st Century. Whether it is water security, the global food crisis, climate change, environmental refugees, nuclear energy and warfare, human survival or the rights of non-humans, environmental or green politics has established itself as one of the most exciting sites of political contestation around the globe today. First, this course establishes the theoretical underpinnings of green politics, including addressing traditional political theory and the environment, from conservatism to liberalism and neo-liberalism on the right, to Marxist and anarchist responses on the left. Next, case studies are taken from numerous countries and cultures where people are pursuing diverse green political goals through a myriad of political processes. These range from the informal dynamics of networks, groups and social movements through to the more institutionalised responses of organisations, corporations, mass media, legal systems, political parties, and governments. Environmental movements and their campaigns are selected from across the globe: from the more affluent worlds of Australasia, Europe and North America; to the majority worlds of Africa, South America and Asia.