Global environmental history in the 20th century [2900-MK1-GEH20] Semestr letni 2024/25
Konwersatorium, grupa nr 1

The readings will be made available on the Kampus platform.

Through case studies and more general readings, we will discuss the most important environmental processes taking place in the 20th century, in particular during the period known as the Great Acceleration. The Great Acceleration refers to a post-WWII era during which humans exerted an unprecedented influence over their environment.

The course will cover a wide range of topics relating to the environmental history of the 20th century including the transformation of agriculture (chemicalization, mechanization, monoculturalization), great hydroengineering projects, the development of petroculture(s) (culture centred around the burning of fossil fuels), the spread of synthetic materials, industrial and nuclear waste, the development of environmental discourse in the East and the West.

The course aims to show the global and planetary nature of environmental changes while underscoring the local experiences and tactics of resistance to ecological harm. The differences in the experiences between the Global South and the Global North, and between the socialist and capitalist approaches to the environment.

Discussion focused on the readings, analysis of primary sources in group(s), occasionally a short presentation.

Students will be assessed based on their participation in discussions. Students who are less active in the discussions may be encouraged to submit a short report or prepare a short presentation.

One absence is allowed without any consequences. A short report on the readings is required in case of a second absence. More than three abscences, unless a serious reason is given, will result in a "non-clasified" grade.

dr Jan Burek