How a Sociology Course Transformed My Understanding of Climate Change
When I joined a sociology course that promised to explore the intricate workings of society, my expectations were fairly straightforward. I wanted to understand the world we live in through a sociological lens — how people navigate the challenges of their daily lives and how societal structures influence these experiences. What I didn’t expect was a profound shift in my awareness and sense of responsibility, particularly around the pressing issue of climate change.
One of the first things this course taught me was to question the world around me more deeply. Discrimination based on race, gender, or political views — issues we often see in headlines — took on a new dimension when analyzed sociologically. Understanding these problems through this lens helped me see the underlying systems at play and how they subtly shape individual choices and societal outcomes. This perspective not only increased my awareness but also helped me approach these issues with a sharper, more critical eye.
My peers and I were broadening our newfound awareness to encompass more than just societal inequities such as poverty, homelessness, and/or mental health. We started off by talking about climate change and immiedaitely my understanding of climate change grew in unexpected ways. Admittedly, I hadn’t given much thought to…