Course note
This course will begin running in fall 2026.
About this course
This interdisciplinary course explores the Arctic as a homeland, a resource frontier, a global ecosystem regulator, and a bellwether of global change. Through the lens of Arctic social-ecological systems, we examine how people – both within and beyond the region – are shaping and being shaped by rapid Arctic change. Topics include Indigenous knowledge, environmental tipping points (including climate), resource conflicts, and varieties of security, from livelihoods to food to geopolitics. Students engage with case studies, debates, and guest speakers, applying theory to real-world challenges. Grounded in both scientific and Indigenous perspectives, this course equips students to understand and respond to the Arctic’s pivotal role in our shared planetary future.
Syllabus
Fall 2026 (Draft)
Go to syllabusThis is a draft syllabus. The final syllabus will be available here a few days prior to the new course’s first start date.
Faculty
Marcus Carson
PhD, Sociology (Docent/Assoc Professor), 2004, Stockholm University, 2004. Fil Kand, Sociology (minor chemistry), Södertörnshögskola, 2000. Bachelors of Arts, Psychology (minor health sciences), Kalamazoo College, 1978. Senior Research Fellow, SEI, 2010-2025; Proj. Lead, Arctic Resilience Rpt (SEI) 2013-2017. Lecturer, Sociology, SU, 2005-2009; Exec. Director, Louisiana Health Care Campaign (USA) 1990-1998; Leg. Director, SEIU Local 100, LA, 1985-1990; President. Baton Rouge AFL-CIO (Louisiana) 1988-1990; Canvass Director, ACORN 1980-1985; Singer/Guitarist 1978-79. With DIS since 2025