This course explores the relationship between human beings and their geologic environment. First, it provides a construct for understanding geologic concepts by addressing the nature of science, systems, and time. Using this foundation, students examine earth's internal/external processes and responses within geological systems such as rivers, coasts, aquifers, glaciers, soils, the mantle, and the crust (volcanoes and earthquakes). In the process, students learn: how geology relates to other disciplines; how to respond critically to stories in the media and to arguments by members of interest groups; and how to make wiser business, political, and ethical decisions. Laboratory and field work provide hands-on opportunities to learn the fundamental building blocks of geology and to analyze the impact of human beings on earth's systems. Three hours of class and one three-hour laboratory session per week. C21:NS, SP.