I just finished reading several articles on oil. If the
article took a short term view of history they were usually
for development of more oil. Those with a long term
view were talking crisis. If the article looked at oil from
one countries economics it took a competitive position and
was interested in getting more oil. When a global view was
taken there was more interest in conservation. The global
view and long term view were concerned about the effects of
Climate changes.
Each viewpoint selected the facts supporting the conclusion
they wanted. They also asked question that had answers which
were comfortable. For example, the short term developers ask
if we have lots of oil at present. The answer is "yes" and
that makes them happy. The long term conservers point out
all the depleted oil fields and forecast the end of oil. This
gives another picture.
No one asked the question: How can we utilize oil
to benefit the earth and all people?
We seem to be stuck in outdated modes of thought and
afraid to face these basic facts:
1. The powerful countries are dependant on
oil for plastics, medicines, clothing,
pesticides, paint, and much of their
economy. This creates a high risk for
crisis and conflict.
2. We will soon begin a period of oil
decline. During this period the price
will raise, costs will go up, economies
will falter, and a few politicians will
focus the anger at oil suppliers or competing
countries or ?.
As individuals we can watch for signs of oil stress and make
adjustments. A positive approach would be to encourage
renewable fuels and conservation at home. We can adjust our
life to avoid the results of "oil stress" and understand how
it works. Two signs will be sporadic problems and increasing
energy costs.
jeff
