--Welcome to the Winter 2021 edition of Japanese History in Ecological Perspective--
Introduction. The island world of Japan offers a unique standpoint for thinking about ecological history. An ecological standpoint likewise illuminates the deep history of Japan. This course takes in the entire span of Japanese history, from the beginnings of human habitation to the present. Topics include ancient Japanese lifeways; climate and history; the development of agriculture; population and resources; Buddhist and animist views of outer and inner nature; urbanization from ancient capitals to Megacity Tokyo; industrialization and energy; and future visions. Readings include influential scholarly works and Japanese primary sources in English translation.
Format. This is a small-enrollment discussion-based seminar. For Winter 2021, it follows a Zoom-based synchronous (live) format. Sessions will not be recorded, and active discussion and presentation work is required.
Textbook. You should purchase the basic text: Conrad Totman, Japan: An Environmental History (I.B. Tauris, 2016 [paperback ed.]; ISBN: 978-1-78453-743-2).
--The WINTER 2021 course syllabus and other materials are posted to the "Files" folder.--