Every aspect of foreign and domestic policy feels the effect of the oil problem. Solutions will be difficult. The course assesses direct and indirect costs of oil addiction, including global warming. Considers scenarios of supply disruption. Examines who controls oil and how. Explains “peak oilâ€ù and the loss of “spare capacityâ€ù to cushion price shocks. Looks at heavy oil production from Canada, America’s largest oil supplier. Weighs energy initiatives, alternative energy development and future energy RD&D. Unravels complexities of the oil problem and explores what is to be done about it. (This is a cross-listed course offered by the Energy, Resources and Environment Program that also can fulfill a requirement for the Canadian Studies Program.)