State of Fear

State of Fear is a fast-paced thriller full of intrigue and danger. With its strongly expressed views on environmentalism, it is also a polemic. What kind of effect do the thriller elements have on the expression of the novel’s ideas, and vice versa?

State of Fear takes a clear stance on the topic of climate change, arguing that the prevailing theory of global warming is erroneous. The novel does not give much opportunity to express evidence for the theory, but which voices promoting it are strongest, and why?

How does Evans change over the course of the novel, and why does his evolution matter for the novel’s plot and ideas?

Jennifer and Sarah play significant roles in the novel, challenging the male characters and propelling the plot. What are their key contributions? How do the two differ from each other, as well as from the lead male characters?

Most of the novel centers on the actions of three groups: Kenner and his entourage, NERF, and ELF. Yet it opens with several chapters rapidly shifting in location and jumping from character to character; most do not reappear. Why do you think Crichton chose to open the novel this way? What effect do these early chapters have on the novel overall?

Crichton wrote State of Fear using an omniscient, third-person perspective, giving readers access to all characters’ thoughts. How would the novel be different if it were written from the point of view of one character, like Evans? Why do you think Crichton chose a third-person perspective?

In his Author’s Message, Crichton writes, “I conclude that most environmental ‘principles’ (such as sustainable development or the precautionary principle) have the effect of preserving the economic advantages of the West and thus continue modern imperialism toward the developing world” (571). Jennifer and other characters echo this sentiment, yet in some ways Kenner’s group exemplifies consumerist culture—traveling around the world in a private jet, for example. Does the novel reconcile this conflict? If so, how? If not, what does this mean for the novel’s polemics?

Consider the paratextual elements in the novel: graphs, footnotes, and references. In what ways do you think they add to and/or detract from the novel’s plot and action?