  One of the main difficulties in a class on Sources of Energy and Social
Policy is the wide variety of units used by different technologists (BTU's,
Barrels of oil, Quads, kWh, etc). As every student eats, I think some of this
confusion can be resolved by starting and grounding the class with a discussion
of food and food production. A general outline for this introduction is
provided and two interesting historical cultural examples, Tenochtitlan and the
Irish Potato Famine, are provided. Science and Social Policy classes are full
of bespoke units and involve many different contexts. Starting the class with a
discussion of food energy is a nice way for everyone to start with the same
context. In addition, discussion of Food Energy can lead to interesting
historical claims.
