Module manager: Richard Bärnthaler
Email: R.Barnthaler@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) View Timetable
Year running 2025/26
SOEE5094M and SOEE5095M
This module is not approved as an Elective
This module explores Ecological Economics, beginning with a brief history of the relationship between economics and the environment. It then introduces the foundational vision of Ecological Economics: embedding the economy within biophysical and societal realities, governed by thermodynamic laws, and shaped by socio-political contexts. Key topics include systems thinking; the interplay between knowledge, values, and uncertainty; sustainable wellbeing; unequal exchange; degrowth; eco-social policy; transformative science; and decolonising ecological economic thought. No prior economics training is required.
The main objective of this module is to equip students with a foundational understanding of the principles and critiques that define Ecological Economics. Students will explore why and how Ecological Economics seeks to establish a new paradigm that situates economic activity within biophysical, social, and political contexts. This module provides a robust foundation in Ecological Economics that students can apply and expand in their research and/or use as a base for more advanced study. Through an active learning approach, students will engage with key concepts and ideas rooted in the pre-analytic vision of Ecological Economics, applying them to real-world contexts and reflecting on the role of judgment, motivations, values, and power in economic analysis. By grounding their understanding in practical applications, students will develop critical thinking skills, reflecting on both the importance of and ways to advocate for and act on their conclusions amid ecological and humanitarian crises on a global scale.
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following learning outcomes relevant to the subject:
SSLO1: Understand and describe the foundational principles of and motivations behind Ecological Economics as an emerging heterodox paradigm.
SSLO2: Critically reflect upon traditional economic approaches to environmental issues, critically assessing the need for and value of situating economic activity within broader biophysical and socio-political systems.
SSLO3: Apply the concepts and ideas from Ecological Economics to some real-world situations, evaluating their social and environmental implications. They can critically assess instruments and policies aimed at environmental issues and reflect on underlying value judgments.
SSLO4: Develop research questions, formulate hypotheses, and design policy bundles and actionable strategies to address current social-ecological crises.
Skills Learning Outcomes
SKLO1: Critical Thinking and Reflection (Academic and Sustainability): Critically assess and synthesise information, apply theoretical concepts to real-world contexts, and reflect on the implications of analyses, including underlying value judgments, power structures, and ethical dimensions.
SKLO2: Teamwork and Collaboration (Work Ready): Demonstrates effective collaboration within diverse groups, respecting differing perspectives, and contributing equitably to achieve common goals. Develops interpersonal skills to foster constructive team dynamics.
SKLO3: Time Management, Planning, and Organisation (Work Ready): Effectively plans and organises workload, manages time to meet deadlines, and adapts to challenges to maintain productivity.
SKLO4: Problem Solving and Creativity (Sustainability): Identify, analyse, and solve problems creatively while integrating ethical considerations and diverse perspectives into proposed solutions.
Details of the syllabus will be provided on the Minerva organisation (or equivalent) for the module
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lecture | 20 | 1 | 20 |
| Seminar | 19 | 1.5 | 28.5 |
| Private study hours | 251.5 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 48.5 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 300 | ||
Formative feedback on student progress is provided via a Discussion Board and weekly seminars.
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Coursework | Coursework | 100 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 100 | |
Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated
The reading list is available from the Library website
Last updated: 13/05/2025
Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team