NORTH OF THE WORLD: THE ARCTIC IN GLOBAL AFFAIRS
The Arctic is becoming one of the world’s most significant regions. This course explores
the Arctic Circle’s history, Indigenous cultures, environmental change, geopolitical
tensions, and economic potential. Participants examine how climate change, natural
resources, shipping routes, and international rivalry are reshaping the North. By
examining the perspectives from the Arctic nations, we will consider how the Arctic may
influence the world’s political, environmental, and economic future.
Possible Topics: Indigenous people; history of exploration; climate change; Northwest
Passage and global shipping; sovereignty disputes; Canada’s Arctic policy; Russia’s
Arctic ambitions; Greenland; oil resources; fisheries and marine ecosystems; The Arctic
Council; Military activity; China’s ambitions; biodiversity and wildlife; and economic
development.
Mondays 1:30 – 3:30 p.m.
September 21 – November 30 (10 Sessions; no class October 12, Thanksgiving)
Course Leaders: Lisa Darling and Jeff Keenor
Fee: $70
19 members maximum in-person