Sociology: Food, People & Environment

Guides students to critically examine the production, distribution, and consumption of food, as well as related culture, power, and ecological issues. With a focus on the modern food system, students will explore the relationship between food, people, and the environment using a sociological lens. Prerequisites: SOC 1500; SOC 2500 or SOC 2550; minimum Junior standing.

Prerequisites enforced by the system: SOC 1500 and (SOC 2500 or SOC 2550; Minimum junior standing PACE students with permission and override

Everybody eats food. However, this most basic human need is often taken for granted. Have you ever considered how your food is produced, where it comes from, and who makes it? Who determines the quality and safety standards of your food, and how? What are the social and environmental impacts of today’s food production and consumption? This course is designed to guide students to critically analyze the production, distribution, and consumption of food, along with related cultural, power, and ecological issues. With a focus on the modern food system, students will explore the relationship between food, people, and the environment from a sociological perspective.