The Big Thirst

Why is water “invisible” if it is so important? Are people unaware of their water use for fundamental reasons, or because of some recent developments in water production and/or consumption?

Is Fishman fair in presenting the use of water? Does he have any obvious or hidden political bias, or ulterior motives?

Is water a resource like oil or gold? All of these substances can be transported and sold, yet water is often consumed for free. What differences or commonalities does water have with other materials?

What differentiates environmental water from processed water? Do rain, drinking water, and waste water have important differences, chemically? How should each of these be considered, socially and/or legally?

How does the city of Las Vegas symbolize America’s paradoxical relationship with water?

Do people relate differently to water in developing countries versus developed countries? If so, how?

How do the scientific and engineering properties of water interact with the social aspects? Does one lead to the other? What makes water special?

Do India, Australia, and the other locations mentioned by Fishman represent what is occurring elsewhere? Are there cultural or environmental issues that make these locations different? Can the same problems also occur in locations not mentioned?