PHL 472: Thinking with Oceans

Course Overview

Thinking With Oceans dives into marine issues of scientific and moral concern through lenses of Traditional Ecological Knowledges, Western science, and environmental feminist philosophy. In this transdisciplinary and experientially focused course, students will spend five days on the Oregon coast exploring how different human (and nonhuman) communities conceptualize and relate to oceans, considering different epistemic approaches to Oregon ocean science, learning the role of TEK and feminist thought in conservation, and brainstorming how to improve relations with marine lives and spaces. At Hatfield, we will be joined by special guests like, marine and shark biologists, tribal members from the PNW preserving coastal TEKs and species relations, and a local artist who will lead a painting workshop on representations of oceans and ocean creatures. 

Visit the Schedule of Classes for more information and to register.

Want to learn more about the course? Contact Dr. Sinclair.

Additional Information

Class Schedule

• Summer 2026 - Summer Session 6 (1 Week) 
• June 15 - June 19, 2026 
• Meets Mon - Thurs, 9:00am - 4:00pm at the Hatfield Marine Science Center in Newport, OR.

Housing

Students interested in residing at Hatfield should complete a housing application by the priority deadlines listed on the housing website.