Dr. Kimberly Smith

Biography

Kimberly Smith is a political scientist whose research explores environmental ethics, policy, and law, particularly focusing on the development of the American 'green state.' Her work examines the evolution of collective capacity to manage complex socioecological systems and achieve meaningful relationships with the natural world. With a strong academic background, she has published on topics including American agrarianism, African American environmental thought, and the history of environmental law. Her teaching experience spans decades, having taught in the Political Science Department and Environmental Studies Program at Carleton College before joining the University of Michigan. Smith's publications include influential works such as 'Making Climate Lawyers: Climate Change and American Law Schools, 1985-2020' and 'Conservation Constitution: The Conservation Movement and Constitutional Change, 1870-1930.'

Research Interests