Tran- Current Event Assignment

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Texas Tech University *

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1401

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Geography

Date

Dec 6, 2023

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docx

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3

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Current Event Assignment GEOG 1401 1. Your name: Thu Hang Tran 2. Topic: Oil and gas fracking 3. Introduction: The contentious issue of oil and gas fracking has seized the spotlight in political discussions, a matter I'm certain you're familiar with. Each side in the debate presents valid arguments, underscoring the complexity of the issue. However, there is a pressing need to find a middle ground that accommodates both perspectives. Despite its environmental drawbacks, fracking contributes positively to the economy. Unfortunately, at present, there seems to be no practical option that seamlessly balances these conflicting interests. 4. Source 1 title and author: “Economic Pain Forces the Energy Transition Narrative to Shift,” Forbes- Author: David Blackmon 4a URL: https://www.forbes.com/sites/davidblackmon/2021/10/09/economic-pain-forces-the- energy-transition-narrative-to-shift/?sh=2acea97463fe 4b. Publisher-type: New Site 4c. Author: David Blackmon, a seasoned independent energy analyst and consultant, boasts an impressive 40-year career immersed in the energy sector. Following this extensive industry experience, he dedicated the subsequent 23 years of his professional journey to shaping public policy on the subject. His wealth of knowledge spans both the private and public spheres, offering a unique perspective cultivated through decades of hands-on involvement in the energy field and a prolonged commitment to influencing policies that govern it. Through his dual expertise, Blackmon has become a reputable authority, contributing valuable insights to both the practical intricacies of the energy industry and the broader discussions surrounding its governance. 4d. Author’s argument: David Blackmon suggests that differing opinions on the environment, affordability, and social justice are slowing down progress toward a lasting shift to cleaner energy. He also argues that, for the economy to remain stable, we need to find a compromise. Blackmon believes we should keep producing oil and gas for now while gradually transitioning to cleaner energy, acknowledging that this process will take a considerable amount of time. 4e. Potential misuse of critical thinking strategies or use of logical fallacies: The author did well staying neutral within the article, but may have had the occasional confirmation bias due to his experience in the oil field and his desire for people working in it now to have jobs they can rely on. 4f. Reliability of the article (1 to 5): I would rate this article as a strong four out of five. The author effectively presents both sides of the argument and supports their perspective with factual information, which strengthens the case for their point of view.
5. Source 2 title and author: “Will taxpayers bear the cost of cleaning up America's abandoned oil wells?” The Guardian – Author: Leanna First-Ara. 5a URL: https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/sep/21/infrastructure-bill- taxpayers-oil-cleanup-costs 5b. Publisher-type: News Site 5c. Author: Leanna First-Arai is an educator and writer committed to raising awareness about the interconnections among climate breakdown, economic inequality, and racial injustice. Through her work, she endeavors to shed light on the intricate relationships between environmental issues and broader societal challenges, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive understanding of these interconnected concerns. Leanna's advocacy extends beyond the environmental realm, as she seeks to foster conversations that recognize and address the complex intersections of climate, economic, and racial issues. 5d. Author’s argument: Leanna First-Arai advocates for a significant paradigm shift, asserting that a pressing need for change exists in our current environmental landscape. One of her key contentions revolves around the widespread neglect of numerous oil wells, left untended and uncared for, contributing to the creation of a more toxic world in which we are compelled to reside. In her perspective, this negligence not only exacerbates environmental degradation but also poses a direct threat to the overall well-being of our shared ecosystem. By highlighting the consequences of such oversight, Leanna underscores the imperative for heightened environmental consciousness and responsible management practices to foster a healthier and more sustainable living environment for present and future generations. 5e. Potential misuse of critical thinking strategies or use of logical fallacies: Within the article, the author brings up many political aspects, using confirmation bias to only confirm the points of her argument that can be supported. 5f. Reliability of the article (1 to 5): I would rate this article as a three out of five. While it presents numerous facts supported by scientific data, the author neglects to acknowledge the opposing perspective, such as the potential economic implications of the oil industry's absence and the feasibility of sustaining ourselves solely on clean energy. Although the article includes opinions grounded in factual information, it lacks a comprehensive exploration of alternative viewpoints. This absence of a balanced presentation detracts from the overall depth and objectivity of the discussion. 6. Your opinion on the topic: In my view, the oil and gas industry plays a crucial role in our economy, fostering the prosperity of our country. This sector provides numerous job opportunities, and I believe there are viable alternative pathways to achieving a cleaner environment without abruptly halting the ongoing work in this industry. Additionally, I am of the opinion that, given the current circumstances, there is no practical substitute for fossil fuels. Consequently, transitioning to clean energy might not be as swift as some desire due to the absence of feasible alternatives at this point in time. 7. Critical thinking strategies or fallacies that might have affected your opinion. Did you change your opinion? My perspective might be influenced to some extent by political leanings and a
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