The Institute for Social Ecology is proud to announce the launch of our first online course – Ecology, Democracy, Utopia: An Introduction to Social Ecology.

Underway now. Stay tuned for news of the second offering of this course.



This course introduces students to social ecology – an interdisciplinary body of ideas that examines social and ecological problems from a transformative and holistic perspective. Students will learn the foundations of social ecology and apply these insights to a variety of contemporary political and ecological problems, sharpening their understanding of the world while developing visionary ideas to change it. The course explores a broad range of interconnected themes, including:

What is Social Ecology?

The Emergence and Dissolution of Hierarchy

Understanding Nature

Capitalism, Critique, Alternatives

Technology, Agriculture, and Society

Politics Beyond the State:Direct Democracy & Popular Assemblies

Getting from Here to There: Social Movements and Community Organizing

Reconstructive Vision: Reclaiming Utopia

Format: This 8 week course will be taught by core Institute for Social Ecology staff, combining weekly online lectures and discussions in real time with flexible learning via interactive web forums and one-on-one engagement.

Cost: $50

To Register: Contact us at social-ecology@mail.mayfirst.org