The following is the result of a broad-based literature search of dissertations, articles, and presentations. These records focus on regulation changes, law changes, citizen oversight, and political fallout related to the spill. To obtain these articles, dissertations, and abstracts, it is suggested that you print off the pertinent records and submit it to your local librarian for assistance.
Most libraries can obtain the documents through interlibrary loan.
Because disasters often illuminate power relations that are normally unnoticed, the oil spill provided a unique setting for analyzing the structural contradictions engendered by the concurrent demand for both fossil fuel energy and environmental protection. Drawing on state theory, theories of law creation, and disaster research, this dissertation demonstrates how the oil spill drew into question the institutionalized patterns that support capital accumulation at the expense of the natural environment. Despite a few concessions to the oil industry in OPA'90, the new law reflected a strong national commitment to regulating the industry in order to protect the natural environment. More specifically, the law was rigorous in targeting tanker construction, liability limits for polluters, and contingency plan creation, despite the fact that these provisions were defeated in earlier legislative attempts. This increased regulation meant that industry faced higher costs in doing business as well as decreased autonomy in making business decisions.