Cornell Human Ecology

What is Human Ecology? Human ecologists explore the complex and layered relationship between humans and our world. Solutions that drive humanity forward At Cornell Human Ecology (CHE), we prepare scholars, practitioners and citizens to use their knowledge and resources to improve the human experience. Our name was inspired, in part, by former professor Urie Brofenbrenner’s groundbreaking theory on the ecology of human development. His work proposed that optimal development can be nurtured or stifled based on a nested set of systems — cultural, social, economic, political and psychological — and their interactions. We examine the human experience within the interconnected web of systems that impacts our health and well-being. Collaborating across disciplines, we anticipate and analyze current and emerging issues facing individuals and society — then we work to solve them. Our students and faculty engage in focused research, supportive outreach, sustainable design and ethical practice to address contemporary human problems and help people live better, healthier lives. From small-yet-meaningful changes in our local community to innovative advancements that can change the world, we create solutions that drive humanity forward.