This course examines relationships between global processes of economic, environmental and social change and situated, micro-level experiences of food and environmental (in)security within communities in both the developing and developed worlds. The global will not be treated as a context for local experience, but as a contested project pursued by multilateral agencies, governments and corporations. The successes and failures of export-led development strategy will be evaluated alongside the alternative visions of international peasant movements, civil society organisations, alternative trade advocates and others.  Key themes will include the rise and influence of the globalisation project, the role of the private sector in cross-border food and environmental governance, the ecological and social sustainability of globalisation, prospects for food security in an era of climate change and rising energy costs, and the responses of communities to globalising pressures.

Students who satisfy the requirements of this course will be able to:

1. Explain, from a sociological perspective, the causes of food and environmental security and insecurity.
2. Utilise sociological theory and evidence to explore the implications of various development strategies for people and environments.
3. Critically analyse policy and other responses to food and environmental insecurity.

1. Tutorial participation (Learning Outcomes 1–3) 10%
2. Tutorial Presentation (Learning Outcomes 1-3) 10%
3. Essay of 1,500 words on key concepts covered in the course (Learning Outcome 1) 30%
4. Research essay of 2,500 words in which students analyse detailed case study of food and/or environmental insecurity (Learning Outcomes 2 and 3) 50%

There will be one two hour lecture and one one hour tutorial every week. Students will be expected to undertake 7 hours independent learning each week.

12 units of 1000 level ANTH, ENVS, POLS or SOCY courses or with permission of lecturer.

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McMichael, P. 2012. Development and social change: a global perspective. Fifth Edition. Sage: London.