petroleum as fuel

A look at the uncomfortable realities of a world that is both addicted to fossil fuels and unaware of the looming "peak oil " crisis, debunking the conventional wisdom that oil production will continue to climb. Explores oil's rocky relationship with human progress in locales ranging from ancient Baku, Azerbaijan to dusty oilpatch town McCamey, Texas. Promotes a humbler way of life built around sustainability and alternative energy.

Briefly explores the history of mankind's use of oil for energy, from ancient fire arrows made by lighting oil on arrowheads up to the first oil well to be drilled by Edwin Drake in America, and on to how much oil and gasoline we use everyday for energy in the twenty-first century. Includes a glossary.

"James Howard Kunstler, author of The Long Emergency, which sold approximately 36K copies, returns with a new book exploring the looming collapse of the techno-industrial economy, featuring profiles of individuals who have drastically altered their lives due to financial difficulties"--.

Introduces oil, one of Earth's energy resources, discussing where it comes from, how we develop and use it, and how it helps power the world.

Traces the process by which gasoline is made, from the oil fields to finished product.

Examines energy from coal and oil, how they are used today, and how they may fit future energy needs.

Discusses oil, a natural resource which is a primary source of energy and numerous important by-products.

Looks at coal and oil as sources of energy and discusses the technology needed to convert it to useful working energy, examining the history, chemistry, and geology of coal and oil, how it is accessed, consumption and demand, and the social and environmental costs.

Presents the pros and cons of using oil for fuel as the growing demand for electricity increases problems such as air pollution.

Discusses the history, environmental impact, and future viability of oil power in fourteen essays, and includes a glossary, chronology, and further reading list.