Last week, Professor Dan Hill of Texas A&M’s Petroleum Engineering program gave this presentation and a copy of The Moral Case for Fossil Fuels to a group of approximately 150 incoming petroleum engineering students.
Why distribute the book? As he said in the presentation:
- I want you to know the facts about the vital importance of oil and gas production for the benefit of mankind
- I want you to be proud to become a petroleum engineer who will help supply the world its energy
- I want you to be able to intelligently discuss energy issues with those who are not knowledgeable
It is a dream to see my work featured so eloquently to a student audience. The knowledge, passion, and dedication they will bring to the energy industry will touch the lives of millions of people worldwide.
This is a step toward the goal of every student in an energy-related field being thoroughly educated not just in the technical aspects of their profession, but in the moral significance of their future work.
Whom to Thank on Thanksgiving
Whomever else you thank, thank the industrialists who make us hundreds of times more productive and prosperous than our ancestors. Industrialists do not get the credit they deserve. In fact, they get much blame they do not deserve. It means a lot to people in industry if you thank them for their good work.
Hearts and Minds
“I was excited to find your course after I read The Moral Case for Fossil Fuels (the book that got me off of “green”). The conversations I was having around many issues were too contentious and defensive. Your strategy of using concise arguments – void of BS and delivered in a respectful way, was (and still is) refreshing.
I completed a “first round” of the course and intend to complete several more. The excitement I held before taking the course has grown since realizing the material can be applied to any topic, not just energy! Keep up the great work…..your network of supporters is growing.”
– Tim, November 20, 2016 after taking How to Talk to Anyone About Energy