Freshman Seminar: Volcanoes and Civilization

Tragedy at Galeras

In this project we will explore some of the complexities scientists are faced with in investigating volcanoes and making decisions on how to explore volcanoes. As a working volcanologist I am often asked about the dangers I face in the line of duty. Sometimes it is difficult for me to explain to laymen what it is like to work in a volcano environment. We will use the tragedy at Galeras as a basis and try to understand the decisions made and whether they were wise.

1) Required: Read the two books:
S. Williams and F. Montaigne, Surviving Galeras, 2001, Boston, Houghton Mifflin, 270, 0618031685, QE22 .W45 A3 2001, Stanley Williams and Fen Montaigne. ill. ; 24 cm.

V. Bruce, No apparent danger : the true story of volcanic disaster at Galeras and Nevado Del Ruiz, 2001, New York, HarperCollins, 239, 0060199202, QE523.N48 B78 2001, Victoria Bruce.

2) Read or Browse through these books as background:

D. Thompson, Volcano cowboys : the rocky evolution of a dangerous science, 2000, New York, St. Martin's Press, viii, 326, 0312208812, QE521 .T48 2000 551.21/072

3) Recall the documentaries we watched, the movies we saw and the depictions of volcanoes in art and literature. We will have class discussions on these topics, be prepared to present your ideas and contribute to the class debate.

4) Prepare an essay (5-8 pages) which constitutes a review of the two books assigned in this class, much like you might read in the New York Times Book Review. In your essay you should explain what the source of the controversy is and take a side on who’s version you support. Provide concrete evidence or examples to backup your remarks.

Tie in the material we have discussed in earlier part of this course. You do not have to answer all these questions, they are provided as guidelines. Be specific and provide examples to illustrate your remarks. Be sure to properly acknowledge resources you use. Be critical, choose a stance and back it up with clear, logical arguments.

• What are the risks and benefits of studying volcanoes?
• How do volcanologists assess risks? What is the main scientific evidence that is brought to bear on the issue?
• Why do volcanologists do what they do? What motivates them and do those motivations justify the risks they take?
• Are volcanologists different from other professionals who take risks in their work? Think of, for example, fire fighters, construction workers, athletes, stunt men, etc… How do volcanologists compare with others in their approach to risk and hazard?
• Decide on whether you blame or defend Stan Williams on his decision to enter the crater at Galeras in 1993. Justify your remarks.
• In the end, each person must make a decision on whether to take risks or not given the available information. Is second guessing, after the fact, fair?
• Do either of these authors have ulterior motives? Explain how the motives might influence their respective expositions?