PLSCI 2470

Plants and Cultures around the World

Course Description

Course information provided by the 2026-2027 Catalog.

This course explores the economic and agricultural importance of plants to people. Topics include the roles of plants as sources of food, shelter, fiber, and medicines, as well as the cultural and historical aspects of economic botany, and will instill an appreciation of our connection with plants. This course is suitable for non-life sciences majors.

Distribution Requirements (BIO-AG, BSC-AG, OPHLS-AG)

Exploratory Studies (LAAREA)

Last 4 Terms Offered 2025FA, 2023SP, 2021FA, 2019FA

Learning Outcomes

• Articulate the connections between plants and people that are commonly encountered.
• Describe the fundamental concepts of the value of plants within different areas (agriculture, medicine, etc.)
• Identify the interactions among plants, people and the biosphere.
• Explain the role of people and plants in relationship to climate change.
• Apply the principles of economic botany to everyday situations.

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