Agr, Lndscp & Envir: Agricultural Policy and Ethics

An examination of American agriculture and policies from various perspectives - historical, political, ecological, technological, social, economic, and ethical. Emphasis on contemporary issues, policy options, and future development. Prerequisites: CDAE 2020, ALE 3120, or equivalent. Cross-listed with: CDAE 3080.

Cross listed with CDAE 3080 A Open to Degree and PACE students

http://www.uvm.edu/~tbradsha/Teaching/CDAE208Syllabus.pdf

This course examines historical, political, ecological, technological, social, economic, and ethical facets of American agriculture, food policies, and the Farm Bill and particularly their effects at the farm level. We will cover US and Vermont agricultural policies, and examine the causes, nature, and effects of government participation in agriculture, the relationship of agriculture with the political and economic systems, environment, food system, and the impact of involved groups. Specific topics will include development of ag policy in the US, background of current ag programs, political nature of ag legislation, provisions in the Farm Bill, environmental programs, organic farming, farm support programs, and consumer issues related to ag and food policies. We will also examine specific Vermont agricultural issues including food labeling and EPA mandate to reduce phosphorus flow into Lake Champlain.

This is a writing and rhetoric-intensive course. Students completing this course are expected to: 1. Attain a basic level of knowledge of U.S. and Vermont state agriculture policies. 2. Understand the main components of the Farm Bill and its effects on the agriculture sector. 3. Evaluate credibility and quality of information relating to agriculture and farm policy. 4. Use critical thinking skills to evaluate complex issues and present their positions using well-referenced written and oral arguments.

Graded materials will consist of a combination of objective instruments (tests and quizzes), subjective writings (reflections and essays), and oral presentations / arguments. The purpose of the assignments is to give you an opportunity to present your views with supporting arguments. Papers and presentations are graded on the how you present your supporting statements, not on your views.