There is increasing recognition that the reductionist mindset that is currently dominating society, rooted in unlimited economic growth unperceptive to its social and environmental impact, cannot resolve the converging environmental, social and economic crises we now face. The primary aim of this free course, Understanding the environment: Co-evolution, is to encourage the shift away from reductionist and human centred thinking towards a holistic and ecological worldview.

After studying this course, you should be able to:

• use the insights gained from the study of this course to work collaboratively in developing a shared understanding of the Earth system and how we can establish a decent quality of life while remaining within the Earth’s carrying capacity.