August 7, 2008
Yesterday I wrote that the US will not spend its way out of our current trouble.
I really am more optimistic than that opinion would indicate and would like to draw upon the history of energy on the Planet to provide a rational for this optimism. For the young, they will probably not read this. For the older segment of the population (who probably will not read it either because this blog does not have the readership of the Times) I ask that you draw upon your education and your experiences.
For those who remember their early schooling, when this whole world started man was unaware of the many benefits of fire but the multiple benefits continued to be recognized and fire became our main force of energy for eons. Then came the miracles of steam to be followed by the wonder of oil. Turbines led to wide spread electricity. Then, we developed the control of the atom (for peaceful purposes) and electricity generation, among other uses both medical and peacekeeping, became doable and affordable.
With the recognition of the potential of oil, man searched the Planet, making wondrous discoveries by finding the reserves within. As the easy explorations dried up, the scientists and engineers moved on to the seas. This has been the history of how man has captured the resources of the Planet to the benefit of every living being. (Don't argue with me on my use of every>).
We now have to move on because oil is not the renewable source which we need to maintain life and to grow.
Wondrously, we have now discovered the sun and the wind. With these virtually endless raw materials plus our educational system and our know how to produce almost anything at a reasonable and attainable price we are now on the threshold of resources far greater than oil and there is an unlimited supply of each.
So take heart my friends, man is here to stay.