After reading this article affirming peak oil theory and others which are disputing peak oil theory (conveniently after this current glut of oil on world markets), I am reminded of the metaphor regarding the blind men and the elephant. Obviously, peak oil deniers are so focused on this short term oil glut as well as being committed to capitalism that they refuse to look at the science of peak oil.
Heinberg has written in support of the science behind peak oil theory since the beginning and is highly regarded as an expert. I, also, am thoroughly convinced of the validity of this theory after having read many articles on the subject. However, his overwhelming focus on only one part of this phenomenon has skewed his perception of related issues. I am referring here to his omission, or ignorance about, the capitalist system. Thus, he looks around and finds only the economics profession to blame for the failure of peak oil warnings!
There’s no cause for shame in that: the deck was stacked against us. The economics profession, which has a stranglehold on government policy, steadfastly continues to insist that energy is a fully substitutable ingredient in the economy, and that resource depletion poses no limit to economic growth. Believing this to be true, policy makers have effectively had their fingers jammed in their ears.He appears to be totally unaware that capitalism requires growth and cheap, abundant energy to exist. Those who receive huge benefits from the system in terms of wealth and especially overwhelming political power cannot but resist and deny peak oil warnings.
If people are not sufficiently motivated by the social disasters produced by capitalism, then surely they must be by the disasters that lie ahead for their children, grandchildren, and the human race due to diminishing supplies of cheap oil and climate destabilization caused by the overuse of fossil fuels. Thus, peak oil as well as climate destabilization are revolutionary issues.
