A Field Philosopher's Guide to Fracking Hardcover by Adam Briggle

Product Details

• Publisher: Liveright (2015-10-27)
• Language: English
• Paperback: 0 pages
• ISBN-13: 9781631490071
• Item Weight: 548.86 grams
• Dimensions: 9.5 x 6.34 x 1.18 cm

From the front lines of the fracking debate, a “field philosopher” explores
one of our most divisive technologies.

When philosophy professor Adam Briggle moved to Denton, Texas,
he had never heard of fracking. Less than three years later he would
successfully lead a citizens’ initiative to ban hydraulic fracturing in
Denton—the first Texas town to challenge the oil and gas industry.
On his journey to learn about fracking and its effect on communities,
he leaped from the ivory tower into the fray.

In beautifully narrated chapters, Briggle brings us to town hall debates
and neighborhood meetings where citizens wrestle with issues few fully
understand. Is fracking safe? How does it affect the local economy?
Why are bakeries prohibited in neighborhoods while gas wells are
permitted next to playgrounds? In his quest to answer such questions,
our “field philosopher” turns from policy advisor to activist.Granting an
insider look at the struggle between citizen and industry, Briggle gives
us a completely new way to think about the politics of innovation.

About the Author

Adam Briggle teaches philosophy at the University of North Texas in Denton, where he also serves on a citizens' advisory group. He contributes to Slate, Truthout, and other publications. His work and the Denton story have been featured in the New York Times, the Los Angeles Times, BBC, NPR, Washington Post, and Newsweek.