Freakonomics Radio 551. What Can Whales Teach Us About Clean Energy, Workplace Harmony, and Living the Good Life?
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Jul 27, 2023 
Hester Blum, a Professor of English specializing in oceanic literature, dives into the lessons we can learn from whales. She explores the intriguing concept of fecal plumes and their role in marine ecosystems, as well as the impacts of shipping noise on whale populations. The conversation also highlights the diversity within the 19th-century whaling industry, showcasing the contributions of marginalized sailors. Finally, Blum ties all these themes to Melville's 'Moby-Dick,' emphasizing how literature reflects our relationship with nature.
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Moby Dick's Impact
- Hester Blum, an English professor, first read "Moby Dick" at 17.
- It launched her lifelong fascination with whales and oceanic literature, even getting a harpoon tattoo.
Moby Dick's Relevance
- "Moby Dick" isn't solely about whaling, but about much more.
- It explores themes relevant to today's world, like unsustainable resource extraction and environmental destruction.
Whale Mortality
- Whales face various threats, including plastic pollution, ship strikes, and fishing gear entanglement.
- While some whale species have recovered, new dangers, like noise pollution, continue to emerge.
