Global Energy Justice

Can classical and modern theories of justice help us make decisions about current and emerging energy systems? We will consider classical and modern theories of justice and apply them to the reality of energy systems. The course is divided into four parts: (1) understanding energy systems (including site visit) and how they promote and impede justice; (2) exploring justice theory and what it can offer when applied to energy problems; (3) examining policy mechanisms and tools that promote energy justice; and (4) analyzing case studies around the world in which communities or countries have made remarkable gains promoting energy justice.This course counts as an approved social science cognate for environmental studies majors.