The
Middle East Environment:
Historical
Change
and Current Challenges
Dr. D.K. Davis
Spring 2016: T/TH, 12:10-1:30; 158 Olson
Course
Description:
This course will introduce students to the environment and
multiple natural resources of the Middle East and North
Africa. It will explain how these natural resources have
been utilized and managed throughout history by a variety of
human population groups. A background on the physical
environment, flora and fauna of the Middle East will be
provided. The relevance of history, politics, and the legacy
of colonialism/ imperialism for the environment will be
examined. Through the use of contemporary case studies, the
course will examine environment and development challenges
faced in the Middle East today. We will study cases from
Egypt, the Maghreb, the Levant, the Gulf region and others
that deal with issues regarding water, nomads, agriculture,
desertification, national parks, indigenous knowledges, and
more!
Fulfills the GE Social Science and Arts & Humanities requirement.