Breaking U.S. Oil Addiction: How addicted is the U.S. to oil? How much oil does the world have left? Is it possible to reduce our consumption of oil and other fossil fuels to avert the dangers of climate change? How much has oil driven our foreign policy? Should the U.S. strive to be “energy independent”? What are the costs and benefits to society of fracking? This course examines such questions and invites students to critically assess existing U.S. oil policy and make informed recommendations for the future. Issues to be explored are the supply and demand for this nonrenewable resource, its historical importance to the U.S. economy, and its national security and environmental consequences. We will analyze various policy options, including supply-based measures such as increased oil drilling and use of unconventional sources, as well as demand-based measures such as fuel economy standards, higher gasoline taxes, and incentives for alternatives like electric vehicles and biofuels. Throughout this course, we will work together to develop our reading, writing, and presentation skills, and become familiar with class preparation and participation expectations at Eckerd.
- Profesor: Jill Collins