NFDS
3205

Alternative Food Networks

Schools of Public Engagement: Food Studies

Liberal Arts
Undergraduate Course
Majors Only
Alternative Food Networks
Spring 2023
Taught By: Andrew Smith
Section: A

CRN: 13218

Credits: 3

In recent decades, a range of alternative food production and consumption practices have emerged in response to concerns about the environmental, economic and social impacts of our globalized industrial food system. Farmers’ markets, Community Supported Agriculture, food co-ops, urban ag, geographical indications and other certifications are some of the examples of ‘alternative food networks’ (AFNs) that attempt to address some of the perceived problems of our current food system. However, there is much discussion as to whether or not these AFNs have the ability to address and ameliorate the problems that they claim to. During the first half of the course we will explore different theoretical paradigms that we can use to better understand the key aspects of AFNs and agriculture in general. In the latter half of the course we will use these theories, or “ways of understanding”, to analyze case studies of AFNs. Using sociological, economic, and critical theories we will evaluate the promise and limitations of AFNs to create more sustainable and just food systems. Readings will be drawn from the fields of economic geography, rural sociology, organizational theory, community development, political economy and critical theory.

College: Schools of Public Engagement (NS)

Department: Food Studies (NFDS)

Campus: New York City (GV)

Course Format: Seminar (R)

Modality: Online - Asynchronous

Max Enrollment: 21

Add/Drop Deadline: February 5, 2023 (Sunday)

Online Withdrawal Deadline: April 16, 2023 (Sunday)

Seats Available: Yes

Status: Closed*

* Status information is updated every few minutes. The status of this course may have changed since the last update. Open seats may have restrictions that will prevent some students from registering. Updated: 7:42am EDT 5/29/2023

Meeting Info:
Building: Online Course
Room: 999
Date Range: 1/23/2023 - 5/17/2023