In this course we will explore many scientific, cultural, and perceptual aspects of environmental risk issues. We will discuss, in depth, toxicological and epidemiological concepts, psychological aspects of risk perception and coping and influences on self-protective behavior. We will spend time discussing risks and the media and how to communicate with the public about risks. We will also talk about environmental policy surrounding risks, including liability issues and SARA Title III.

The success of the class depends very much on thoughtful discussion, and active participation by the members of the seminar. That, in turn, requires that you have read, and thought about the books and articles assigned. The emphasis in this class is on critical thinking about risk issues.

Class meets Tuesdays from 11:30 to 2:30 in Blake 131. Attendance is mandatory. Missing more than one class can result in a reduction in your final grade. Missing three classes will result in a failing grade. Grading will be based on class assignments/Journal (15%), a midterm (30%), group projects (20%) written (25%) and oral reports (10%).

Class assignments. Because reading and thinking about the material before class is so important, I am providing some incentive (beyond your own insatiable thirst for knowledge) to do both. You will be required to keep a journal. In this journal you are required to write a paragraph (or brief outline) that discusses the main ideas of each chapter or article assigned, and some of your thoughts about the material. You are required to bring that journal to class so that you can refer to it and can take notes as we talk about important issues. Periodically, I will collect your journals to make sure that they are up to date. I expect a journal entry for each chapter or article before the class date assigned. No late assignments will be accepted. All of the articles will be on reserve at the Chang Science Library.

In addition to the chapters and articles assigned to the entire class, each seminar member will choose a specific risk topic to review, summarize and discuss with the class on a particular day. The assignment is to prepare a 10-15 page summary of the main scientific, social, political, and communications issues related to the problem. Based on your written summary, you will then lead a brief 10-15 minute discussion during the class period. Because the topics will be assigned to complement a specific topic that we will discuss, no late assignments will be accepted or tolerated.