This course is part of the Human Aspect of the Earth System Science Program. The main focus is on the interactions between people and their environment. It will cover topics such as perception of environment, the origin of the earth, the evolution of the earth environment, and the earth as the home of human beings. Discussion about atmosphere, hydrosphere, biosphere, and geosphere will oriented to human history. They are considered either as natural resources or natural hazards. Historical events will be used to illustrate how human history was affected by environment and how the environment affected historical events. Literatures, art and archeological findings will be quoted. Videos from Discovery and National Geographic Society will be used often. Global change and sustainable development are the two main concepts underlie such discussions. Above all, the earth acts as a system and the human beings as an integrated component.