Just Below the Surface
A one session discussion guide that explores the connections between Deepwater Horizon, energy policies and our lifestyles.
During this course, participants will:
- Explore the connections between the oil spill, energy policy and our lifestyles.
- Consider a variety of perspectives on the “lessons” of the Deepwater Horizon blowout.
- Consider meaningful ways in which to respond to the oil spill.
- Identify steps to reduce fossil fuel use in our own lives.
“We need to look at each other. We all use oil. We all have some responsibility. That’s a good thing because if we have some responsibility, we all have some power.” — John Francis, author
If you are interested in starting this discussion course in your community, download the Just Below the Surface Course Flyer here.
Topic
The course offers an opportunity to reflect further on the Deepwater Horizon oil spill and the lessons it holds for us moving forward—individually and collectively. The intent is not to assign blame, but rather to take responsibility—as conscious consumers and concerned, active citizens.
Readings
| “Blowout” by John Daniels “Cheap Oil is Costing Us the Earth” by Dr. Sylvia Earle “From Reaction to Intentionality” by Anna Berardi “Empowerment Through Art: NOLA Rising” by Jennifer Anderson “Beyond Oil: Nature and Adaptation” by David Gessner “Missing the Real Drama of the Deepwater Horizon Blowout” by Bill McKibben “Building a 21st Century Sustainable Economy” by Cylvia Hayes |


