This one credit hour seminar will use documentary films and readings to explore the nature of political conflict surrounding the siting and construction of energy facilities, such as pipelines, wind farms, transmission lines, nuclear power plants, and fossil fueled energy production facilities. There will be six, two-hour class meetings (Wednesday evenings), and grades will based upon participation and a series of short (1-2 page) papers students write analyzing the conflicts depicted in the films. We will view documentaries about the Cape Wind project in Nantucket sound, the Dakota Access Pipe Line, nuclear power, fracking, and more. Readings will consist of some classic works exploring the nature of “not in my backyard“ (NIMBY) movements, risk perception, internet “filter bubbles,”and environmental justice.
Spence, David B.