The planet Earth is an amazing place, with a dynamic interior and surface even after 4.6 billion years under its belt. At its most basic, this class is an introduction to the materials and structure of the Earth, and to the processes acting on and in the Earth to produce change. We will learn the language of geology through a study of plate tectonics, planetary structure, and rocks of all sorts. I am particularly interested in the physical forces that shape the surface of the Earth, and I am excited to teach you about a multitude of surface processes that shape our planet (rivers and glaciers and waves, oh my!). The planet has begun to show signs of our expanding population and the increasing need for natural resources, and we will consider the feedbacks between humans and the Earth as well. Broadly, the goals of the course are three-fold: first, to introduce the materials and natural processes that govern the evolution of the Earth; second, to examine global changes in the context of natural processes; and third, to inspire you to develop a lifelong interest in the Earth. The course begins with an overview of the origin of the solar system and other planets. Next, you will learn about Earth materials and how to interpret the significance of minerals and rocks in the context of our dynamic planet. We will examine the composition, structure, and evolution of the interior of our planet, as well as the well-accepted (but not complete) model of plate tectonics. We will also spend time examining the forces that shape our continental surfaces, including surface and groundwater movement, hillslope processes, coastlines, wind and deserts, and glacial processes. Throughout the course, I will strive to link the academic study of our planet to ‘real-life’ situations and events, and demonstrate the importance of understanding earth processes to being an educated global citizen.

This course draws from a range of theoretical, clinical, and methodological approaches to address several key questions: Where does the drive to consume originate? Do we control our consumer behavior? Is it possible to live in our culture and not be a consumer? Are there realistic alternatives to the status quo? We will critically examine the scholarly merits and ramifications of these ideas and discuss whether and how to act upon them in our lives and in society more broadly. A portion of class time will be spent in experiential exploration of suggested “antidotes to materialism” such as mindfulness, gratitude, and voluntary simplicity, in a variety of settings (e.g., Mall of America, a local landfill, an urban intentional community, etc.) Prerequisites/background knowledge: This course does not require any prior knowledge; however, a strong interest in psychology and/or environmental studies will likely be helpful.