To Drill Or Not To Drill

Introduction

Debates pertaining to oil in general and drilling in particular have always been controversial. This is especially as concerning balancing the benefits of drilling with the demerits it comes with especially as pertaining to environmental conservation. In my opinion, it would vouch for not drilling oil. Of course, oil is quite necessary for the running of varied machineries. It would also come as one of the ways of enhancing the per capita income of individuals (Noss et al, 2000). However, it is noteworthy that numerous metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions would be dispatched into the atmosphere, something that works against the environment. In addition, as much as it is touted as one of the techniques or ways in which the per capita income of individuals would be enhanced, there is no guarantee that there will be equitable distribution of such income. In fact, the poor may only end up getting a small share of the income (Noss et al, 2000). This is compounded by the vast amount of environmental degradation caused by drilling and possible deforestation.

As much as I hold this view, I acknowledge that it is a result of other people’s ideas. My thinking, when defending my view and examining the opposing view, is hindered by self-deception. This is especially considering that my knowledge on drilling and the varied techniques that may be applied to prevent environmental degradation is quite superficial, and may have emanated from biased environmental groups (Ruggiero, 2012). In addition, I may be applying the “Mine-is-better” attitude where I imagine that environmental conservation should supersede human welfare that would be enhanced by drilling, in the form of better healthcare, infrastructure and educational facilities. Other people may have other priorities and consider ecology and conservation as a luxury especially when they lack basic amenities.

Nevertheless, there are varied strategies that I could employ so as to eliminate the perceptual blocks and habits that hinder my thinking. The best strategy, in this case, would be metacognition, where I would examine my thinking and become aware of my initial impressions (Ruggiero, 2012). Evidently, my stand may not be influenced by objectivity especially considering that I did not examine the opposing views. Examining the initial impressions of the “drilling” issue, especially those impressions that influence me to take a certain stand even before I have examined the opposing view would allow me to suppress them and become objective before taking a stand (Ruggiero, 2012).

References

Ruggiero, V. R. (2012). The art of thinking: A guide to critical and creative thought. New York: Pearson Education Inc.

Noss, R. F., Westra, L., & Pimentel, D. (2000). Ecological integrity: Integrating environment, conservation, and health. Washington, D.C: Island Press.