Theoretical and empirical examination of the connection between the natural environment and the social world. This involves inquiry into the sociological dimensions of some major contemporary environmental problems, including air, water and soil pollution, decreased biodiversity, deforestation, climate change, and ozone depletion. Particular attention is paid to the social and political connections among issues of industrialization, development, globalization, inequality, gender, social change and environmental destruction. Prerequisites: Third-year standing and AUENV 120 (or its crosslisted equivalent). Note: Credit may be obtained for only one of AUENV 358 and AUSOC 358.