Elites, Technology and Local Environmental Policy in the Era of Elon Musk

• In Event: New Challenges in Technology Governance

Abstract

This project will assess the effect that Elon Musk’s company SpaceX has had on Cameron County, Texas. Utilizing Domhoff (1967, 2014), Hunter (1953), and Mills (1956) this paper will focus on how the global power elite impact the local power elite in Cameron County, specifically regarding environmental policy concerning the activities at the SpaceX facility Starbase, located on Boca Chica Beach, Texas. The study focuses on potential gentrification and environmental damage versus the expected positive effects in terms of economic growth and job creation. The present analysis uses data from semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders including government officials, developers, environmentalists and other activists, in order to understand the connections between the global and local power elite. A survey of Cameron County residents will also be used to determine their experience with environmental damage resulting from SpaceX activities.

Authors

• Michelle Keck, University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley

• Guadalupe Correa-Cabrera, George Mason University