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.