Course # 39950 Section Number 1 Day(s) M- W Time(s) 4:30pm-5:50pm Term Fall 2026 Course Instructor Scott Ashworth Specialization Energy & Environmental Policy Syllabus Syllabus 8/20/26 Introduction to philosophical and political concepts useful for climate policy practitioners. How can we evaluate climate policies? Examines utilitarianism, sustainability, intergenerational justice, and the treatment of risk and uncertainty, culminating in the Stern–Nordhaus debate. How do political institutions shape collective action on climate? Bargaining, voting, and free riding as structural challenges facing climate governance. What role should experts play in policy? Strategic communication, inductive risk, and value-laden concepts as threats to the transmission of scientific knowledge to the policy arena. Course Sections Quarter Course # Title Instructor Day(s) Time(s) Syllabus Fall 2026 PPHA 39950/1 Ethics, Politics, and Expertise in Climate Policy Scott Ashworth Monday, Wednesday 4:30pm-5:50pm Syllabus Recent News More news Harris Researcher’s New Book Examines Why Calling 911 Can Do More Harm Than Good Tue., September 15, 2026 Eric Ham, MPP’04: Your Favorite Analyst’s Favorite Analyst — How Policy Shaped a Pioneering Voice in Journalism Tue., September 15, 2026 Eighteen Students Selected as 2026-27 University of Chicago Obama Foundation Scholars Tue., September 15, 2026 Upcoming Events More events Get to Know Harris! MS in Climate and Energy Policy (MSCEP) Wed., September 16, 2026 | 9:30 AM Harris Part-Time and Credential Programs Information Session Wed., September 16, 2026 | 12:00 PM Coffee Chat in Houston Thu., September 17, 2026 | 9:30 AM Common Bond Bistro & Bakery 1706 Westheimer Rd Houston, TX 77006 United States