It is well known that life on Earth’s surface depends on the physical envelope of airy gases above our heads – the AIR. The air gives us the material we need to breathe. It protects us from harmful radiation and warms us from the cold of outer space. It has complex layers and convection systems that bring us weather.
The air is a cultural space as well: it mediates our phone calls, our posts, emails, music and video streaming; sky is an airspace for all kinds of airborne vehicles that transport mankind and cargos; it is weaponized through the use of drones and tear gas; and it contains communities of more-than-human beings.
For these reasons and others, there is an urgent need for students to engage in the nature and culture aspect of the air. And answer the question about how can we feel, sense, and know it? This advanced level course will explore a range of concepts, tools and methods to do so.