Oil
by Vaclav Smil · first published 2008
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2020–2023first – last mentioned
50% neutral50% critical
Without oil, there would be no globalization, no plastic, little transport, and a worldwide political landscape that few would recognize. It is the lifeblood of the modern world, and humanity's dependence upon it looks set to continue for decades to come. In this topical book, the author of the acclaimed Energy: A Beginner's Guide, Vaclav Smil, explains all matters related to the "black stuff," from its discovery in the earth right through to the political maelstrom that surrounds it today. Packed with fascinating facts and insight, Oil: A Beginner's Guide is unique in bringing together so man
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I'm fascinated by this idea. Do you have any books or resources you'd recommend that dives into the topic of energy? I've found two interesting books so far: - Oil: A Beginner's Guide by Vaclav Smil - Energy and Civilization: A History by Vaclav Smil
on “WTF Happened in 1971?” ↗Wood didn't give way to coal that gave way to oil. This is a terrible fallacy (albeit very commmon, even Vaclav Smil fell into it in his "Oil" book). The world currently consumes more coal than it ever did. Wood consumption is also record high. We simply…
on “Why did renewables become so cheap so fast?” ↗