Introduction
Summary: This syllabus aims to entice conversation about the future of information institutions and information work in the Anthropocene.
Description: In this introductory module, we have selected a number of general audience sources to help orient students to the wide range of complex problems facing information professionals in relation to the environment. Although sometimes envisioned as unrelated to the environment, Ensmenger’s “Environmental History of the Internet” presents the many ways computing and environments are coproductive.
Readings:
Ensmenger, Nathan. “The Environmental History of Computing.” Technology and Culture 59, no. 4 (December 28, 2018): S7–33. https://doi.org/10.1353/tech.2018.0148.
Conversation with Leanne Betasamosake Simpson
https://psmag.com/ideas/indigenous-knowledge-has-been-warning-us-about-climate-change-for-centuries
Stacy Vanek Smith and Cardiff Garcia. Cobalt: Rare and Everywhere. The Indicator. NPR. 2018 https://www.npr.org/sections/money/2018/03/06/591265523/cobalt-rare-and-everywhere
Computers and the Dilemma of e-Waste http://public.eblib.com/choice/publicfullrecord.aspx?p=3339442.
“Electronic Marvels Turn Into Dangerous Trash in East Africa” (May 12, 2019) https://www.nytimes.com/2019/05/12/climate/electronic-marvels-turn-into-dangerous-trash-in-east-africa.html?action=click&module=Discovery&pgtype=Homepage
data centers near you/
Podcast: https://www.gimletmedia.com/reply-all/132-negative-mount-pleasant