This advanced graduate seminar, ENV 796b, delves into the biopolitics of human-nonhuman relations, exploring the theoretical and ethnographic implications of the 'post-humanist' turn. The course examines multi-species ethnography and its philosophical underpinnings, including ontological theories that challenge traditional human-centric perspectives. The seminar is structured into sections that progressively build understanding, starting with foundational introductions to the course and perspectivism. It moves on to explore entanglements, examining the translation of indigenous knowledge, the history of natural history, and the political dimensions of environmentalism. Metaphorical uses of non-human imagery in political discourse and geological imagery are also analyzed. The course culminates in student-selected readings and presentations of their seminar papers, allowing for deep dives into specific areas of interest. The final section concludes with reflections on plants as teachers and a lecture by the course teaching fellow. Enrollment is capped, indicating a focused and interactive learning environment.
The seminar is divided into thematic sections, covering theoretical frameworks and specific case studies related to human-nonhuman relations.
While this specific course does not directly lead to a defined career path, the skills and knowledge gained are highly relevant for advanced research and academic positions in fields concerned with environmental policy, social sciences, and interdisciplinary studies.
Enrollment is capped.
Financial aid and scholarships are available for eligible graduate students. Specific details can be found through the Yale Graduate School admissions and financial aid offices.
Yale University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).
This is an advanced graduate seminar and requires graduate standing. Enrollment is capped.
The Biopolitics of Human-Nonhuman Relations seminar is an advanced graduate seminar offered in the Spring 2026 term and carries 3 credits.
This course is part of a graduate degree program. International students should follow the general admissions process for a relevant Yale graduate program, such as the Yale School of the Environment, and submit required materials by the program's deadline.
International students should refer to the Yale Graduate School of Arts & Sciences for specific tuition and fee information, as this course is part of a degree program.
Financial aid and scholarships are available for eligible graduate students. Specific details can be found through the Yale Graduate School admissions and financial aid offices.
While this seminar does not lead directly to a defined career path, the skills gained are relevant for advanced research and academic positions in fields like environmental policy, social sciences, and interdisciplinary studies, potentially in roles such as Researcher, Academic, or Policy Analyst.