Dr. Tucker
Do you start your day with coffee? This course explores the diverse expressions and ramifications of “coffee culture,” from farmers who see it as their livelihood, to traders and baristas who know it as a living, to consumers who can’t imagine life without it. We will explore the histories of coffee, including its roles in international power relations, and its current implications for environmental change, economic development and social justice. We will evaluate policies and alternative trade approaches, such as Fair Trade, which aim to mitigate the “infamous coffee cycle” and economic inequities. Social activism and controversies related to coffee will be considered, including coffee and health, coffee and sustainability, and roles of coffee shops in modern society. Class activities include discussion, a topical debate, a mini-research project, a coffee-tasting, and presentations by coffee experts.