Natural Science and the Environment We will explore in detail a series of current environmental issues in order to learn how principles of biology, chemistry, geology, and physics, as well as interdisciplinary scientific approaches, help us to identify and understand challenges to environmental sustainability. In lecture, we will examine global environmental issues, including climate change, water and energy resources, biodiversity and ecosystem services, human population growth, and world food production, as well as the application of science in forging effective, sustainable solutions. In the laboratory and field, we will explore local manifestations of global issues via experiential and hands-on approaches.

The Perennial Turn The work of repairing Earth—response-ably attending to life-nourishing human and more-than-human interrelationships—starts at scales of self and community. Power dynamics, thoughtways, humans and planet Earth changed when our ancestors began annually disrupting soil ecosystems and storing surplus food. We explore notions of perennial thinking and action through readings, direct experience, and work with local partners at the forefront of the perennial turn. Combining ancient and contemporary knowledges in science, history, philosophy, spirituality, and more, we investigate thinking more like a prairie than a plow. How might we regrow deep roots and craft ways that align with current understandings of Universe, Earth, life? In the Spring 2023 semester we will focus on healing and food systems.

Marc Lapin

Reviews and ratings for Marc Lapin at Middlebury College.Marc Lapin teaches Natural Science & Environment, The Perennial Turn and more.  Explore top rated instructors and find the best for you.Is Marc Lapin good ? Find out on MiddCourses.

This class tapped a lot into spirituality. We deconstructed the idea of nature, and connected with community partners whose work was centered around healing or food systems. This was my favorite part of the course. Bill and Marc are extremely passionate, and take a very unconventional approach to teaching, attempting to do away with the status quo at the door. 

If you are an independent learner and like to explore things through a holistic/spiritual way, this course might be a great fit for you. If you are looking for structure and more guided learning, there is lots of shortcomings.

Lots of deep discussions (I cried multiple times), great reading material, and important topics & projects. Lots of valuable community work and collaboration. The only slightly annoying part were the discussion post after every reading. 