ABSTRACT
This study used the circuit of culture to examine advertisements and websites of U.S.-based industry trade groups representing the energy industries of coal (American Coalition for Clean Coal Electricity) and petroleum (American Petroleum Institute). Using a census of all advertisements available through the trade groups' websites during spring 2014, the study identified 4 prominent narratives created by the American Coalition for Clean Coal Electricity and American Petroleum Institute to enhance public support for the industries while fostering uncertainty around climate change and reducing concern for climate initiatives. The research reveals the power inequities surrounding climate discourse by suggesting that wealthy industry trade groups employ a discursive practice of distraction and appropriation of U.S cultural values and mores, essentially shifting public dialogue from climate change and potential environmental policies to how these policies would hurt the industries and adversely affect the average U.S. citizen.
