> Surprise. The concept of sustainability still doesn't go down
> very well. But when you say "if you eat, you're involved in
> agriculture," then people have to agree.
> Just study and teach agriculture.
I couldn't agree more. Attempting to put political spin into the curriculum
(or giving that appearance) is not appropriate, and will produce strife.
Lack of appreciation and understanding of agriculture is part of a lack of
understanding of biology, and science in general. IMO the appropriate role
of science in liberal arts education is integration of a general
understanding of science and the environment with human culture.
I envision a course called "Agriculture and civilization." The elements
would include:
1. Hunting/gathering way of life
2. Probable origins of agriculture
3. Domestication of plants and animals
4. Elaboration of economies and empires
5. Agriculture and the phenomenon of modernity
6. Pushing the limits: current issues in agriculture
Maybe too ambitious.
Dale
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