GEOG 104 A-Z - Special Topics in GeographySemester Hours: 1-3
Periodically
This course provides a study of a particular subject or problem in geography, with the specific topic for the course varying from semester to semester. Possible course topics include an introduction to geographical information systems (GIS), transportation geography, urbanization in the developing world, the economic geography of China, and environmental geography. Students should consult with the particular instructor each time the course is offered to determine if prior preparation for the topic to be covered is recommended. Such consultation may take place prior to registration or on the first day of class.
Current Special Topics:
GEOG 104Y - (CC, IS) Drug Plants and Globalization
Plants like tea, coffee, opium poppy, tobacco, cannabis, and coca contain mind-altering substances. These plants originated outside of Europe and desire for them and the cultural practices associated with them have underwritten colonialism and wars. This course explores how these plants have mediated the relationship between different parts of the world while reshaping human subjectivities.
Crosslisted as GS 104Y , FST 005E
GEOG 104W - (IS) Cinema of the Global Financial Crisis
The course uses recent cinema, together with course readings, to show how the global financial crisis of 2008 affected different aspects of life in the US, from individual struggles to broader economic policies and social movements. We situate the crisis within the development of global capitalism and the move away from industrial production to the growth of financial services. We examine how deregulation enabled risky speculative investments that led to a crisis that shook the foundations of global capitalism. We are still living with the aftershocks that have led to a reevaluation of the merits of globalization and fueled the rise of new political parties, movements and popularist politicians.
Crosslisted as GS 104W
Prerequisite(s)/Course Notes:
May be repeated for credit when topics vary. Specific titles and course descriptions for special topics courses are available in the online class schedule.
View Course Offering(s):
Fall 2025
January 2026
Spring 2026
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