Description

Survey and theory of human cultural perceptions of plants and plant environments and patterns of interactions that can be observed across cultures. Emphasis placed upon botanical classification systems, dynamics of knowledge about plants, and traditional educational systems for learning about plants. Pre: BOT 440 and LING 414 or ANTH 414; or consent. DB

BOT 448: Cognitive Ethnobotany focuses on the large body of knowledge about plant diversity, ecosystems, and life cycles that has accumulated within cultural contexts (including modern botanical science). Scientific topics particularly emphasize the development of classification systems for living organisms, landscapes, etc. and how these organizational structures are used by scientists and members of cultural communities to make decisions about management of resources. Other scientific topics addressed include: distribution of plant knowledge in human communities, alternative resource management strategies, artificial ecosystems, and patterns of plant distribution resulting from human migrations and trade. The biosphere I & II projects and various NASA attempts to develop plant-based closed ecosystems are examined for strengths and weaknesses in light of various cultural alternatives. Students work as a team to design and write a report about an artificial plant ecosystem intended to support a small population of humans traveling to Mars.