In this engaging discussion, Jamie Jones, author of "Rendered Obsolete," delves into the intertwined histories of whaling and petroleum. She highlights how whale oil influenced America’s energy narrative and critiques the romanticization of whaling culture. The conversation touches on Herman Melville's "Moby Dick" as a reflection of energy dynamics, the ethical implications of extraction, and the shared vulnerabilities of whales and marginalized communities. Jones argues for recovering lost narratives while exploring the lasting impact of the whaling legacy in contemporary society.
The podcast discusses the upcoming Glacier Graveyard installation at UNESCO HQ as a poignant recognition of disappearing glaciers amid climate change.
Jamie Jones explores how whale oil's historical significance shaped the concept of energy as a commodity, influencing both whaling and petroleum industries.
The conversation critiques the myth of energy interchangeability, emphasizing the unique histories and impacts of different energy regimes on society.
Deep dives
New Developments in Glacier Preservation
This year, 2025 has been designated as the Year of Glacier Preservation by the United Nations, which was announced during the podcast. UNESCO will hold significant events related to this initiative, including discussions and diplomatic engagements aimed at protecting these essential natural resources amid global warming concerns. World Glacier Day will officially take place on March 21, 2025, highlighting the urgency of preserving glaciers as they play a crucial role in climate regulation. However, despite these optimistic efforts, there is skepticism about the effectiveness and motivations of major corporations in the renewable energy space, particularly as some are retracting their commitments to sustainable practices.
The Unfolding Glacier Graveyard Project
The podcast presents plans for a Glacier Graveyard event at the UNESCO headquarters in Paris on March 20, 2025, coinciding with the aforementioned Glacier Preservation initiatives. This unique project will feature representatives from various countries reading eulogies for glaciers that have vanished or are endangered, marking an emotional and symbolic recognition of the losses resulting from climate change. The incorporation of creative elements, such as ice carvers and possibly music, aims to make the event both impactful and memorable. This endeavor reflects a rising awareness and collective action regarding the plight of glaciers in the face of environmental degradation.
Whaling's Cultural Legacy
The discussion shifts to an insightful interview with Jamie Jones, who authored a book exploring the history of whaling and its impact on American culture. Her work examines how whale oil was a key energy source during its time, drawing parallels between historical and contemporary energy challenges. The podcast emphasizes the limited presence of scholarship about whales in relation to energy discourse, making her book a significant addition to the dialogue. Jones' focus on the intersections of whaling and energy encourages a deeper understanding of the socio-political implications of resource extraction.
Environmentalism Through Whale Songs
During the conversation, the narrative touches upon the role of whale songs in sparking environmental activism in the 1960s and 70s, contributing to the 'Save the Whales' movement. The recording and distribution of whale songs bridged the gap between humans and these majestic creatures, fostering a sense of connection and urgency to protect them. This cultural phenomenon illustrates how media can play a significant role in shaping and amplifying environmental consciousness. It also highlights a broader narrative where the plight of certain species can biologically and emotionally resonate with audiences, galvanizing support for conservation efforts.
Exploring the Myths of Energy Interchangeability
Jones critiques the myth of energy interchangeability, challenging the notion that all energy sources can be seamlessly replaced by one another. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the unique histories and impacts of different energy regimes, such as whale oil and petroleum, and the social dynamics associated with their extraction. This distinction leads to conversations about the environmental implications and ethical considerations surrounding energy production in the modern era. By shedding light on the interconnectedness of historical extraction practices, the podcast underscores the need for a critical reevaluation of today's energy sources and their cultural ramifications.
Dominic and Cymene bask in their new mics in this week’s podcast and talk about a new Glacier Graveyard installation coming soon to the UNESCO HQ in Paris. Then (15:55) we welcome Jamie Jones to the podcast to talk about her new book, Rendered Obsolete (U North Carolina Press, 2023). We talk to Jamie about how whale oil defined the historical context into which petroleum was born and contributed to a unified idea of “energy” as a market commodity. We then discuss Jamie’s argument that Melville’s Moby Dick is a peak (whale) oil novel. We discuss the shared vulnerability of working class humans and whales in extractive industry, whaling and imperialism, whether there are traces of the past worth recovering, narratives of energy obsolescence and white supremacy, and the many afterlives of whaling in American culture. Hang in there, good people of the pod, peace and love ❤️
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