* EPS 0300a, Mass Extinctions  Lidya Tarhan

Mass extinctions have repeatedly reshaped life in the oceans and on land over our planet’s history. These extinctions, although all massive, have ranged widely in magnitude, and were followed by different tempos and modes of ecosystem recovery. This course explores historical conceptualization and recent investigations of mass extinctions. We interrogate potential drivers—and the tools used to diagnose them—of some of Earth’s most severe extinctions, including the emergence of new species and new behaviors, meteorite impacts, volcanism, the configuration of tectonic plates, global warming and glaciation. Drawing upon a combination of scientific literature, popular science and works of fiction, we also discuss whether we are in the midst of a sixth mass extinction and explore predicted and imagined post-extinction landscapes. Enrollment limited to first-year students.  WR, SC
TTh 11:35am-12:50pm