The Moral Case for Fossil Fuels

Really enjoyed this book for its clear thinking and excellent arguments. We are bombarded daily with "green propaganda" and it is refreshing to finally have a clear, thoughtful, comprehensive, and moral case for why to use fossil fuels be presented in such a logical and understandable format. The authors insights into the fallacies of the "green" arguments and his emphasis on the incredibly positive contributions that energy has on improving human life were most appreciated. The obvious benefits of using fossil fuels are so enormous and the proven technologies to manage the negatives clearly make the case for the increased use of fossil fuels for the betterment of the human race.

This is a good book, full of valuable information. I saw an interview of the author, Alex Epstein online and bought the book on the strength of that interview. Epstein is an articulate man, well versed in his subject, with a lucid reason why fossil fuels are good for humans. He points out the energy available in fossil fuels is indispensable to the flourishing of mankind. Curtailing the use of that energy without some other source being available will bring death to billions of people. The dire consequences predicted for using fossil fuels have not materialized. The only dire consequences from fossil fuel usage has been in the computer models, and the models have not been accurate. The slight warming of the past century, about a half degree, has been a help, not a hinderance to making this planet livable. Carbon dioxide is a plant fertilizer. Other than hydro and atomic sources, there are no realistic alternatives to fossil fuels. So-called "renewable" sources of energy, wind and solar, are intermittent, therefore not reliable, and the rare earths needed for building wind turbines and solar panels are extremely polluting. Hydro and atomic sources of energy face opposition from environmental groups concerned with safety or esthetic problems.

This is a great book!! It describes everything that fossil fuels have given to the world. Fossil fuels provide us with our wonderful life—our homes, our food, our clothing, our medicines and hospitals, all of our transportationn, computers, cell phoness, etc. You name it and fossil energy is behind it—there is absolutely nothing else on this earth, other than fossil energy, that makes our lives comfortable and safe. Epstein describes the very real problems in the use of, so-called, ‘renewables.’ He explains why converting to them means the death of millions of people around the world.

Too often the public is bombarded by news stories, films and celebrities/politicians stating how fossil fuel energy is an extreme danger to our existence. The mainstream media does not even attempt to show a perspective that might be different from this viewpoint. Alex Epstein has written an intelligent and well referenced book pointing out the growth of industrialized societies due mainly through fossil fuel energy. He raises many excellent points regarding the benefits of fossil fuels. In particular, I was impacted by the idea that United States energy policies against fossil fuels have had an extremely negative effect on economically poor nations. For these people, it is a matter of life or death. The real crime is the elite establishment forcing their agendas on the poor people of the world - people whose lives could be vastly improved by fossil fuel energy. Whether you are for or against decreasing fossil fuel usage, this book is well worth your time to read and become more informed about these issues. Thanks Alex.

Refreshing perspective about one of the most important elements that's made our modern world great. I've heard of many of the difficulties with 'renewables' mostly dealing with intermittency and cost ($ & environment) but rarely do you hear about the scalability when talking about 8 billion people. His main premise is that fossil fuels being cheap, plentiful, and reliable have done the best work for human flourishing and as technology advances the risks are negated. Hardly ever do you hear about a reward/risk comparison when talking about oil, you only hear necessary evils or just end of the world predictions due to climate changes. The issue is the climate IS dangerous but having means ands the ability we can make it as safe as possible for humans.

Epstein makes a good case for the value of fossil fuels, especially in developing countries. And points out, that without them, most Western nations would go backwards into Third World status themselves. The book's a bit repetitive, but worth reading.

I enjoyed the philosophical argument that fossil fuel is even good for the planet. It seems nowadays we have to be careful of blaspheming against the holy narrative of man made climate change, as if it is criticism exempt.

I had never thought of the energy debate as one about morals. A basic fight between those who want to better peoples lives versus those who want to better what they believe to be nature.

Almost to the end in just a few days. Direct, well-referenced and with historical context on many facets of the topic. Developing countries have as much right to inexpensive energy as today's first-world nations did during their development. The author describes in detail, both historically and currently, how those seeking grants and influence thereby sell their credibility as hundreds of their dire predictions have come to nothing. Predictions of the 70s have us all wearing gas masks in the cities by now and also predicted that Britain would be a near-desert wasteland by 2020. The world was to be soon to run out of oil. So many of these negative predictions failed to foresee the ability to "scrub" emissions, failed to foresee advances in oil and gas extraction, and basically underestimated the scientists and engineers who have accomplished so much in the face of such negativity. Dusting off those dire predictions and holding them up to the light gives us some inkling of how likely the new set of dire predictions may play out. New to me was a detailed examination of research indicating accelerated growth in many plants with the slight increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide. One of the best revelations was a side-by-side comparison of global temperature change of the 102 computer models that FAIL epically to predict anything. Only two of the 102 models come anywhere close and even those two overshot reality by a sizeable margin. Truth is: it's complicated far beyond the ability to predict.

So great to see a young Ayn Rand disciple applying the technique of reducing two sides of a debate to their underlying moral premises in this crucial area of energy philosophy. Armed with the moral high ground and empirical data to back up his case, Alex Epstein has earned his place as one of the world leaders in providing clarity and hope to those of us who worry about the destructive potential of the environmental movement.

Really enjoyed this book for its clear thinking and excellent arguments. We are bombarded daily with "green propaganda" and it is refreshing to finally have a clear, thoughtful, comprehensive, and moral case for why to use fossil fuels be presented in such a logical and understandable format. The authors insights into the fallacies of the "green" arguments and his emphasis on the incredibly positive contributions that energy has on improving human life were most appreciated. The obvious benefits of using fossil fuels are so enormous and the proven technologies to manage the negatives clearly make the case for the increased use of fossil fuels for the betterment of the human race.

This is a good book, full of valuable information. I saw an interview of the author, Alex Epstein online and bought the book on the strength of that interview. Epstein is an articulate man, well versed in his subject, with a lucid reason why fossil fuels are good for humans. He points out the energy available in fossil fuels is indispensable to the flourishing of mankind. Curtailing the use of that energy without some other source being available will bring death to billions of people. The dire consequences predicted for using fossil fuels have not materialized. The only dire consequences from fossil fuel usage has been in the computer models, and the models have not been accurate. The slight warming of the past century, about a half degree, has been a help, not a hinderance to making this planet livable. Carbon dioxide is a plant fertilizer. Other than hydro and atomic sources, there are no realistic alternatives to fossil fuels. So-called "renewable" sources of energy, wind and solar, are intermittent, therefore not reliable, and the rare earths needed for building wind turbines and solar panels are extremely polluting. Hydro and atomic sources of energy face opposition from environmental groups concerned with safety or esthetic problems.

This is a great book!! It describes everything that fossil fuels have given to the world. Fossil fuels provide us with our wonderful life—our homes, our food, our clothing, our medicines and hospitals, all of our transportationn, computers, cell phoness, etc. You name it and fossil energy is behind it—there is absolutely nothing else on this earth, other than fossil energy, that makes our lives comfortable and safe. Epstein describes the very real problems in the use of, so-called, ‘renewables.’ He explains why converting to them means the death of millions of people around the world.

Too often the public is bombarded by news stories, films and celebrities/politicians stating how fossil fuel energy is an extreme danger to our existence. The mainstream media does not even attempt to show a perspective that might be different from this viewpoint. Alex Epstein has written an intelligent and well referenced book pointing out the growth of industrialized societies due mainly through fossil fuel energy. He raises many excellent points regarding the benefits of fossil fuels. In particular, I was impacted by the idea that United States energy policies against fossil fuels have had an extremely negative effect on economically poor nations. For these people, it is a matter of life or death. The real crime is the elite establishment forcing their agendas on the poor people of the world - people whose lives could be vastly improved by fossil fuel energy. Whether you are for or against decreasing fossil fuel usage, this book is well worth your time to read and become more informed about these issues. Thanks Alex.

Refreshing perspective about one of the most important elements that's made our modern world great. I've heard of many of the difficulties with 'renewables' mostly dealing with intermittency and cost ($ & environment) but rarely do you hear about the scalability when talking about 8 billion people. His main premise is that fossil fuels being cheap, plentiful, and reliable have done the best work for human flourishing and as technology advances the risks are negated. Hardly ever do you hear about a reward/risk comparison when talking about oil, you only hear necessary evils or just end of the world predictions due to climate changes. The issue is the climate IS dangerous but having means ands the ability we can make it as safe as possible for humans.

Epstein makes a good case for the value of fossil fuels, especially in developing countries. And points out, that without them, most Western nations would go backwards into Third World status themselves. The book's a bit repetitive, but worth reading.

I enjoyed the philosophical argument that fossil fuel is even good for the planet. It seems nowadays we have to be careful of blaspheming against the holy narrative of man made climate change, as if it is criticism exempt.

I had never thought of the energy debate as one about morals. A basic fight between those who want to better peoples lives versus those who want to better what they believe to be nature.

Almost to the end in just a few days. Direct, well-referenced and with historical context on many facets of the topic. Developing countries have as much right to inexpensive energy as today's first-world nations did during their development. The author describes in detail, both historically and currently, how those seeking grants and influence thereby sell their credibility as hundreds of their dire predictions have come to nothing. Predictions of the 70s have us all wearing gas masks in the cities by now and also predicted that Britain would be a near-desert wasteland by 2020. The world was to be soon to run out of oil. So many of these negative predictions failed to foresee the ability to "scrub" emissions, failed to foresee advances in oil and gas extraction, and basically underestimated the scientists and engineers who have accomplished so much in the face of such negativity. Dusting off those dire predictions and holding them up to the light gives us some inkling of how likely the new set of dire predictions may play out. New to me was a detailed examination of research indicating accelerated growth in many plants with the slight increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide. One of the best revelations was a side-by-side comparison of global temperature change of the 102 computer models that FAIL epically to predict anything. Only two of the 102 models come anywhere close and even those two overshot reality by a sizeable margin. Truth is: it's complicated far beyond the ability to predict.

So great to see a young Ayn Rand disciple applying the technique of reducing two sides of a debate to their underlying moral premises in this crucial area of energy philosophy. Armed with the moral high ground and empirical data to back up his case, Alex Epstein has earned his place as one of the world leaders in providing clarity and hope to those of us who worry about the destructive potential of the environmental movement.

Really enjoyed this book for its clear thinking and excellent arguments. We are bombarded daily with "green propaganda" and it is refreshing to finally have a clear, thoughtful, comprehensive, and moral case for why to use fossil fuels be presented in such a logical and understandable format. The authors insights into the fallacies of the "green" arguments and his emphasis on the incredibly positive contributions that energy has on improving human life were most appreciated. The obvious benefits of using fossil fuels are so enormous and the proven technologies to manage the negatives clearly make the case for the increased use of fossil fuels for the betterment of the human race.

This is a good book, full of valuable information. I saw an interview of the author, Alex Epstein online and bought the book on the strength of that interview. Epstein is an articulate man, well versed in his subject, with a lucid reason why fossil fuels are good for humans. He points out the energy available in fossil fuels is indispensable to the flourishing of mankind. Curtailing the use of that energy without some other source being available will bring death to billions of people. The dire consequences predicted for using fossil fuels have not materialized. The only dire consequences from fossil fuel usage has been in the computer models, and the models have not been accurate. The slight warming of the past century, about a half degree, has been a help, not a hinderance to making this planet livable. Carbon dioxide is a plant fertilizer. Other than hydro and atomic sources, there are no realistic alternatives to fossil fuels. So-called "renewable" sources of energy, wind and solar, are intermittent, therefore not reliable, and the rare earths needed for building wind turbines and solar panels are extremely polluting. Hydro and atomic sources of energy face opposition from environmental groups concerned with safety or esthetic problems.

This is a great book!! It describes everything that fossil fuels have given to the world. Fossil fuels provide us with our wonderful life—our homes, our food, our clothing, our medicines and hospitals, all of our transportationn, computers, cell phoness, etc. You name it and fossil energy is behind it—there is absolutely nothing else on this earth, other than fossil energy, that makes our lives comfortable and safe. Epstein describes the very real problems in the use of, so-called, ‘renewables.’ He explains why converting to them means the death of millions of people around the world.

Too often the public is bombarded by news stories, films and celebrities/politicians stating how fossil fuel energy is an extreme danger to our existence. The mainstream media does not even attempt to show a perspective that might be different from this viewpoint. Alex Epstein has written an intelligent and well referenced book pointing out the growth of industrialized societies due mainly through fossil fuel energy. He raises many excellent points regarding the benefits of fossil fuels. In particular, I was impacted by the idea that United States energy policies against fossil fuels have had an extremely negative effect on economically poor nations. For these people, it is a matter of life or death. The real crime is the elite establishment forcing their agendas on the poor people of the world - people whose lives could be vastly improved by fossil fuel energy. Whether you are for or against decreasing fossil fuel usage, this book is well worth your time to read and become more informed about these issues. Thanks Alex.

Refreshing perspective about one of the most important elements that's made our modern world great. I've heard of many of the difficulties with 'renewables' mostly dealing with intermittency and cost ($ & environment) but rarely do you hear about the scalability when talking about 8 billion people. His main premise is that fossil fuels being cheap, plentiful, and reliable have done the best work for human flourishing and as technology advances the risks are negated. Hardly ever do you hear about a reward/risk comparison when talking about oil, you only hear necessary evils or just end of the world predictions due to climate changes. The issue is the climate IS dangerous but having means ands the ability we can make it as safe as possible for humans.

Epstein makes a good case for the value of fossil fuels, especially in developing countries. And points out, that without them, most Western nations would go backwards into Third World status themselves. The book's a bit repetitive, but worth reading.

I enjoyed the philosophical argument that fossil fuel is even good for the planet. It seems nowadays we have to be careful of blaspheming against the holy narrative of man made climate change, as if it is criticism exempt.

I had never thought of the energy debate as one about morals. A basic fight between those who want to better peoples lives versus those who want to better what they believe to be nature.

Almost to the end in just a few days. Direct, well-referenced and with historical context on many facets of the topic. Developing countries have as much right to inexpensive energy as today's first-world nations did during their development. The author describes in detail, both historically and currently, how those seeking grants and influence thereby sell their credibility as hundreds of their dire predictions have come to nothing. Predictions of the 70s have us all wearing gas masks in the cities by now and also predicted that Britain would be a near-desert wasteland by 2020. The world was to be soon to run out of oil. So many of these negative predictions failed to foresee the ability to "scrub" emissions, failed to foresee advances in oil and gas extraction, and basically underestimated the scientists and engineers who have accomplished so much in the face of such negativity. Dusting off those dire predictions and holding them up to the light gives us some inkling of how likely the new set of dire predictions may play out. New to me was a detailed examination of research indicating accelerated growth in many plants with the slight increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide. One of the best revelations was a side-by-side comparison of global temperature change of the 102 computer models that FAIL epically to predict anything. Only two of the 102 models come anywhere close and even those two overshot reality by a sizeable margin. Truth is: it's complicated far beyond the ability to predict.

So great to see a young Ayn Rand disciple applying the technique of reducing two sides of a debate to their underlying moral premises in this crucial area of energy philosophy. Armed with the moral high ground and empirical data to back up his case, Alex Epstein has earned his place as one of the world leaders in providing clarity and hope to those of us who worry about the destructive potential of the environmental movement.

Really enjoyed this book for its clear thinking and excellent arguments. We are bombarded daily with "green propaganda" and it is refreshing to finally have a clear, thoughtful, comprehensive, and moral case for why to use fossil fuels be presented in such a logical and understandable format. The authors insights into the fallacies of the "green" arguments and his emphasis on the incredibly positive contributions that energy has on improving human life were most appreciated. The obvious benefits of using fossil fuels are so enormous and the proven technologies to manage the negatives clearly make the case for the increased use of fossil fuels for the betterment of the human race.

This is a good book, full of valuable information. I saw an interview of the author, Alex Epstein online and bought the book on the strength of that interview. Epstein is an articulate man, well versed in his subject, with a lucid reason why fossil fuels are good for humans. He points out the energy available in fossil fuels is indispensable to the flourishing of mankind. Curtailing the use of that energy without some other source being available will bring death to billions of people. The dire consequences predicted for using fossil fuels have not materialized. The only dire consequences from fossil fuel usage has been in the computer models, and the models have not been accurate. The slight warming of the past century, about a half degree, has been a help, not a hinderance to making this planet livable. Carbon dioxide is a plant fertilizer. Other than hydro and atomic sources, there are no realistic alternatives to fossil fuels. So-called "renewable" sources of energy, wind and solar, are intermittent, therefore not reliable, and the rare earths needed for building wind turbines and solar panels are extremely polluting. Hydro and atomic sources of energy face opposition from environmental groups concerned with safety or esthetic problems.

This is a great book!! It describes everything that fossil fuels have given to the world. Fossil fuels provide us with our wonderful life—our homes, our food, our clothing, our medicines and hospitals, all of our transportationn, computers, cell phoness, etc. You name it and fossil energy is behind it—there is absolutely nothing else on this earth, other than fossil energy, that makes our lives comfortable and safe. Epstein describes the very real problems in the use of, so-called, ‘renewables.’ He explains why converting to them means the death of millions of people around the world.

Too often the public is bombarded by news stories, films and celebrities/politicians stating how fossil fuel energy is an extreme danger to our existence. The mainstream media does not even attempt to show a perspective that might be different from this viewpoint. Alex Epstein has written an intelligent and well referenced book pointing out the growth of industrialized societies due mainly through fossil fuel energy. He raises many excellent points regarding the benefits of fossil fuels. In particular, I was impacted by the idea that United States energy policies against fossil fuels have had an extremely negative effect on economically poor nations. For these people, it is a matter of life or death. The real crime is the elite establishment forcing their agendas on the poor people of the world - people whose lives could be vastly improved by fossil fuel energy. Whether you are for or against decreasing fossil fuel usage, this book is well worth your time to read and become more informed about these issues. Thanks Alex.

Refreshing perspective about one of the most important elements that's made our modern world great. I've heard of many of the difficulties with 'renewables' mostly dealing with intermittency and cost ($ & environment) but rarely do you hear about the scalability when talking about 8 billion people. His main premise is that fossil fuels being cheap, plentiful, and reliable have done the best work for human flourishing and as technology advances the risks are negated. Hardly ever do you hear about a reward/risk comparison when talking about oil, you only hear necessary evils or just end of the world predictions due to climate changes. The issue is the climate IS dangerous but having means ands the ability we can make it as safe as possible for humans.

Epstein makes a good case for the value of fossil fuels, especially in developing countries. And points out, that without them, most Western nations would go backwards into Third World status themselves. The book's a bit repetitive, but worth reading.

I enjoyed the philosophical argument that fossil fuel is even good for the planet. It seems nowadays we have to be careful of blaspheming against the holy narrative of man made climate change, as if it is criticism exempt.

I had never thought of the energy debate as one about morals. A basic fight between those who want to better peoples lives versus those who want to better what they believe to be nature.

Almost to the end in just a few days. Direct, well-referenced and with historical context on many facets of the topic. Developing countries have as much right to inexpensive energy as today's first-world nations did during their development. The author describes in detail, both historically and currently, how those seeking grants and influence thereby sell their credibility as hundreds of their dire predictions have come to nothing. Predictions of the 70s have us all wearing gas masks in the cities by now and also predicted that Britain would be a near-desert wasteland by 2020. The world was to be soon to run out of oil. So many of these negative predictions failed to foresee the ability to "scrub" emissions, failed to foresee advances in oil and gas extraction, and basically underestimated the scientists and engineers who have accomplished so much in the face of such negativity. Dusting off those dire predictions and holding them up to the light gives us some inkling of how likely the new set of dire predictions may play out. New to me was a detailed examination of research indicating accelerated growth in many plants with the slight increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide. One of the best revelations was a side-by-side comparison of global temperature change of the 102 computer models that FAIL epically to predict anything. Only two of the 102 models come anywhere close and even those two overshot reality by a sizeable margin. Truth is: it's complicated far beyond the ability to predict.

So great to see a young Ayn Rand disciple applying the technique of reducing two sides of a debate to their underlying moral premises in this crucial area of energy philosophy. Armed with the moral high ground and empirical data to back up his case, Alex Epstein has earned his place as one of the world leaders in providing clarity and hope to those of us who worry about the destructive potential of the environmental movement.

Really enjoyed this book for its clear thinking and excellent arguments. We are bombarded daily with "green propaganda" and it is refreshing to finally have a clear, thoughtful, comprehensive, and moral case for why to use fossil fuels be presented in such a logical and understandable format. The authors insights into the fallacies of the "green" arguments and his emphasis on the incredibly positive contributions that energy has on improving human life were most appreciated. The obvious benefits of using fossil fuels are so enormous and the proven technologies to manage the negatives clearly make the case for the increased use of fossil fuels for the betterment of the human race.

This is a good book, full of valuable information. I saw an interview of the author, Alex Epstein online and bought the book on the strength of that interview. Epstein is an articulate man, well versed in his subject, with a lucid reason why fossil fuels are good for humans. He points out the energy available in fossil fuels is indispensable to the flourishing of mankind. Curtailing the use of that energy without some other source being available will bring death to billions of people. The dire consequences predicted for using fossil fuels have not materialized. The only dire consequences from fossil fuel usage has been in the computer models, and the models have not been accurate. The slight warming of the past century, about a half degree, has been a help, not a hinderance to making this planet livable. Carbon dioxide is a plant fertilizer. Other than hydro and atomic sources, there are no realistic alternatives to fossil fuels. So-called "renewable" sources of energy, wind and solar, are intermittent, therefore not reliable, and the rare earths needed for building wind turbines and solar panels are extremely polluting. Hydro and atomic sources of energy face opposition from environmental groups concerned with safety or esthetic problems.

This is a great book!! It describes everything that fossil fuels have given to the world. Fossil fuels provide us with our wonderful life—our homes, our food, our clothing, our medicines and hospitals, all of our transportationn, computers, cell phoness, etc. You name it and fossil energy is behind it—there is absolutely nothing else on this earth, other than fossil energy, that makes our lives comfortable and safe. Epstein describes the very real problems in the use of, so-called, ‘renewables.’ He explains why converting to them means the death of millions of people around the world.

Too often the public is bombarded by news stories, films and celebrities/politicians stating how fossil fuel energy is an extreme danger to our existence. The mainstream media does not even attempt to show a perspective that might be different from this viewpoint. Alex Epstein has written an intelligent and well referenced book pointing out the growth of industrialized societies due mainly through fossil fuel energy. He raises many excellent points regarding the benefits of fossil fuels. In particular, I was impacted by the idea that United States energy policies against fossil fuels have had an extremely negative effect on economically poor nations. For these people, it is a matter of life or death. The real crime is the elite establishment forcing their agendas on the poor people of the world - people whose lives could be vastly improved by fossil fuel energy. Whether you are for or against decreasing fossil fuel usage, this book is well worth your time to read and become more informed about these issues. Thanks Alex.

Refreshing perspective about one of the most important elements that's made our modern world great. I've heard of many of the difficulties with 'renewables' mostly dealing with intermittency and cost ($ & environment) but rarely do you hear about the scalability when talking about 8 billion people. His main premise is that fossil fuels being cheap, plentiful, and reliable have done the best work for human flourishing and as technology advances the risks are negated. Hardly ever do you hear about a reward/risk comparison when talking about oil, you only hear necessary evils or just end of the world predictions due to climate changes. The issue is the climate IS dangerous but having means ands the ability we can make it as safe as possible for humans.

Epstein makes a good case for the value of fossil fuels, especially in developing countries. And points out, that without them, most Western nations would go backwards into Third World status themselves. The book's a bit repetitive, but worth reading.

I enjoyed the philosophical argument that fossil fuel is even good for the planet. It seems nowadays we have to be careful of blaspheming against the holy narrative of man made climate change, as if it is criticism exempt.

I had never thought of the energy debate as one about morals. A basic fight between those who want to better peoples lives versus those who want to better what they believe to be nature.

Almost to the end in just a few days. Direct, well-referenced and with historical context on many facets of the topic. Developing countries have as much right to inexpensive energy as today's first-world nations did during their development. The author describes in detail, both historically and currently, how those seeking grants and influence thereby sell their credibility as hundreds of their dire predictions have come to nothing. Predictions of the 70s have us all wearing gas masks in the cities by now and also predicted that Britain would be a near-desert wasteland by 2020. The world was to be soon to run out of oil. So many of these negative predictions failed to foresee the ability to "scrub" emissions, failed to foresee advances in oil and gas extraction, and basically underestimated the scientists and engineers who have accomplished so much in the face of such negativity. Dusting off those dire predictions and holding them up to the light gives us some inkling of how likely the new set of dire predictions may play out. New to me was a detailed examination of research indicating accelerated growth in many plants with the slight increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide. One of the best revelations was a side-by-side comparison of global temperature change of the 102 computer models that FAIL epically to predict anything. Only two of the 102 models come anywhere close and even those two overshot reality by a sizeable margin. Truth is: it's complicated far beyond the ability to predict.

So great to see a young Ayn Rand disciple applying the technique of reducing two sides of a debate to their underlying moral premises in this crucial area of energy philosophy. Armed with the moral high ground and empirical data to back up his case, Alex Epstein has earned his place as one of the world leaders in providing clarity and hope to those of us who worry about the destructive potential of the environmental movement.

I jumped on the “climate crisis” band wagon in the early 1990s and went to school to understand the science around it. But I wasn’t taught the real science, I was told the “political science” of climate change. After 30 years of alarmism and nothing predicted has come to fruition I still want to know the real science of climate change. This book reveals the hypocrisy and the manipulation that goes on within the climate crisis politics. The reality is we are being played.

This is a book that needed to be written and is intellectually sound. However it desperately needs an editor to chop out repetition and filler material. The bottom line is we have no heir apparent to fossil fuels and the benefits of fossil fuels (to humanity) far outweighs the costs.

The most comprehensive book out there on the use of fossil fuels. Alex Epstein provides an account of the history and the reality of the doom & gloom projections of climate change experts and how they were wrong on the environmental disasters they forecasted. Fossil fuels are cheap, plentiful, affordable, and the reason life, health, and wellness have been advanced. As a health care provider, everyone needs to read this book!

If you don't read this book, don't bother debating fossil fuels. If you are interested in the truth, this is your book. If you are interested in the load of crap we get from you know who, then by all means this is NOT the book for you.

I really liked this book. It's very informative, it makes you think. It's a good read. you will learn a lot if you open your mind to what he is saying.

A must read! Basically a breath of fresh air based on solid facts and common sense vs the political correct majority who follow the Pied Piper left who want to return mankind to cave man living just to avoid impacting the earth!

You might find yourself screaming at the TV scientists after reading this book

He has a well-explained view of why fossil fuels will be needed for a long time. Well worth reading.

I've always questioned the green movement because of the simple fact that if CO2 is rising then why is it bad for plants to grow? Alex is a master at moral arguments, he presents them with clear statistical, historical and scientific facts. A must read for anybody who isn't fully informed about their clique's raging debate on fossil fuels or renewable energy.

Explains why abandoning fossil fuels suddenly is undesirable and detrimental

Really enjoyed this book for its clear thinking and excellent arguments. We are bombarded daily with "green propaganda" and it is refreshing to finally have a clear, thoughtful, comprehensive, and moral case for why to use fossil fuels be presented in such a logical and understandable format. The authors insights into the fallacies of the "green" arguments and his emphasis on the incredibly positive contributions that energy has on improving human life were most appreciated. The obvious benefits of using fossil fuels are so enormous and the proven technologies to manage the negatives clearly make the case for the increased use of fossil fuels for the betterment of the human race.

This is a good book, full of valuable information. I saw an interview of the author, Alex Epstein online and bought the book on the strength of that interview. Epstein is an articulate man, well versed in his subject, with a lucid reason why fossil fuels are good for humans. He points out the energy available in fossil fuels is indispensable to the flourishing of mankind. Curtailing the use of that energy without some other source being available will bring death to billions of people. The dire consequences predicted for using fossil fuels have not materialized. The only dire consequences from fossil fuel usage has been in the computer models, and the models have not been accurate. The slight warming of the past century, about a half degree, has been a help, not a hinderance to making this planet livable. Carbon dioxide is a plant fertilizer. Other than hydro and atomic sources, there are no realistic alternatives to fossil fuels. So-called "renewable" sources of energy, wind and solar, are intermittent, therefore not reliable, and the rare earths needed for building wind turbines and solar panels are extremely polluting. Hydro and atomic sources of energy face opposition from environmental groups concerned with safety or esthetic problems.

This is a great book!! It describes everything that fossil fuels have given to the world. Fossil fuels provide us with our wonderful life—our homes, our food, our clothing, our medicines and hospitals, all of our transportationn, computers, cell phoness, etc. You name it and fossil energy is behind it—there is absolutely nothing else on this earth, other than fossil energy, that makes our lives comfortable and safe. Epstein describes the very real problems in the use of, so-called, ‘renewables.’ He explains why converting to them means the death of millions of people around the world.

Too often the public is bombarded by news stories, films and celebrities/politicians stating how fossil fuel energy is an extreme danger to our existence. The mainstream media does not even attempt to show a perspective that might be different from this viewpoint. Alex Epstein has written an intelligent and well referenced book pointing out the growth of industrialized societies due mainly through fossil fuel energy. He raises many excellent points regarding the benefits of fossil fuels. In particular, I was impacted by the idea that United States energy policies against fossil fuels have had an extremely negative effect on economically poor nations. For these people, it is a matter of life or death. The real crime is the elite establishment forcing their agendas on the poor people of the world - people whose lives could be vastly improved by fossil fuel energy. Whether you are for or against decreasing fossil fuel usage, this book is well worth your time to read and become more informed about these issues. Thanks Alex.

Refreshing perspective about one of the most important elements that's made our modern world great. I've heard of many of the difficulties with 'renewables' mostly dealing with intermittency and cost ($ & environment) but rarely do you hear about the scalability when talking about 8 billion people. His main premise is that fossil fuels being cheap, plentiful, and reliable have done the best work for human flourishing and as technology advances the risks are negated. Hardly ever do you hear about a reward/risk comparison when talking about oil, you only hear necessary evils or just end of the world predictions due to climate changes. The issue is the climate IS dangerous but having means ands the ability we can make it as safe as possible for humans.

Epstein makes a good case for the value of fossil fuels, especially in developing countries. And points out, that without them, most Western nations would go backwards into Third World status themselves. The book's a bit repetitive, but worth reading.

I enjoyed the philosophical argument that fossil fuel is even good for the planet. It seems nowadays we have to be careful of blaspheming against the holy narrative of man made climate change, as if it is criticism exempt.

I had never thought of the energy debate as one about morals. A basic fight between those who want to better peoples lives versus those who want to better what they believe to be nature.

Almost to the end in just a few days. Direct, well-referenced and with historical context on many facets of the topic. Developing countries have as much right to inexpensive energy as today's first-world nations did during their development. The author describes in detail, both historically and currently, how those seeking grants and influence thereby sell their credibility as hundreds of their dire predictions have come to nothing. Predictions of the 70s have us all wearing gas masks in the cities by now and also predicted that Britain would be a near-desert wasteland by 2020. The world was to be soon to run out of oil. So many of these negative predictions failed to foresee the ability to "scrub" emissions, failed to foresee advances in oil and gas extraction, and basically underestimated the scientists and engineers who have accomplished so much in the face of such negativity. Dusting off those dire predictions and holding them up to the light gives us some inkling of how likely the new set of dire predictions may play out. New to me was a detailed examination of research indicating accelerated growth in many plants with the slight increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide. One of the best revelations was a side-by-side comparison of global temperature change of the 102 computer models that FAIL epically to predict anything. Only two of the 102 models come anywhere close and even those two overshot reality by a sizeable margin. Truth is: it's complicated far beyond the ability to predict.

So great to see a young Ayn Rand disciple applying the technique of reducing two sides of a debate to their underlying moral premises in this crucial area of energy philosophy. Armed with the moral high ground and empirical data to back up his case, Alex Epstein has earned his place as one of the world leaders in providing clarity and hope to those of us who worry about the destructive potential of the environmental movement.

Probably one of the most important recent books written. Excellent book and I can't speak highly enough of it. To say that it is simply a book about global warming or even the larger energy debate is to diminish the importance of this book. Although that is the topic of the book and I don't want to take away from that. This book is one of the best books on that issue and for if that is your main concern then this book does fit that bill and will teach you more than you ever thought you would know about those subjects. However the way he does it makes this book much more far reaching. He not only deals with (and destroys) the subject at hand but does it in a way that makes you rethink your views on it and host of other issues as well. In short, not only a great book to answer your questions about global warming hysteria and the energy problems we face but also a book that helps you learn how to see the world around you and how you think about it in a different and more intelligent way.

A compelling argument providing a sound case why 'green' doesn't always mean good and why 'fossil fuels' doesn't always mean bad. Epstein really hits the argument home by identifying the standard of value (i.e. by what do we judge 'fossil fuels' bad and 'green' things good). As the book accurately points out, human civilization has strived forward in tremendous ways ever since man has been able to understand the resource potential of fossil fuels. If we are to judge whether fossil fuels are good or bad by what they have done to the human standard of living, then fossil fuels are good. Millions of people have come out of poverty because of the plentiful and cheap power that fossil fuels provide. Fossil fuels have saved and elongated millions of lives across the world. The winner of the moral argument is clear.

Alex approaches the world's use of energy in a very positive and eyes wide open refreshing manor. Wake up people and read this thoughtful essay with an open mind. You will be amazed.

explains why oil is good and enriches man

This book is well written, easy to read and understand. It provides an alternative way of looking at fossil fuels, the bane of many environmentalists who fail to see the big picture. In my view, most environmentalists, like me, have good hearts and have the desire to improve the lives of human beings without destroying the planet we all live on. Unfortunately, many environmentalists do not consider how the resources of our planet, such as fossil fuels, have allowed human beings to flourish, as Epstein explains, which has greatly improved our lives. In most cases, environmentalists only consider the negative risks and potential problems associated with fossil fuels. This book presents a very good case for looking at the benefits of fossil fuels, and, in my opinion, suggests that the failure to utilize more fossil fuels would be morally wrong. My reading of the book leads me to believe the author is asking the reader, "How can we, in good conscience, keep the same energy we use on a daily basis out of the hands of the underdeveloped/undeveloped countries, knowing that the energy from fossil fuels has enriched our lives and improved our standard of living?" I would certainly recommend this book to those environmentalists who have an open mind, and enough critical thinking skills to evaluate the book honestly. For the ideologues' whose minds cannot consider other view points without retreating to a safe place, don't buy the book. It may disturb you to discover that other rational beings live on the planet. I know that this book provided me with an idea that I had not considered before, which is the standard of value we should be considering when making policy and economic decisions, and it is first and foremost human life.

Great book full of info you won’t hear from the MSM or politicians. Note all the bad reviews aren’t from verified purchasers lol

There is a real need for more rational people like Alex Epstein in the discussion about energy policy with regard to climate change. Everyone needs to read this book before supporting radical policies on "renewable energy".

As a literature teacher, and someone with almost no technical knowledge in this field, I thoroughly enjoyed both the content and the easily digestible ideas in this book. I’ve always been suspicious of the fear mongering I see regarding fossil fuels and their destructiveness. Yet it still affected me to see oil spills and dirtied water caused by drilling or to hear about the “raping” of the planet. Fortunately, this book gave a level headed and logical discussion on these and all related issues. I was heartened to notice that the book did not discount the gravity of the claims that fossil fuels do cause pollution and cause some harm. These are serious issues that cannot be idly shucked aside. But, nor can reasonable men and women simply ignore the immense benefits provided by fossil fuels. If you are like me and often found yourself conflicted while listening to someone berate the energy industry, then this book will give you a firm grounding of both sides of the argument, and so, if you choose to, you too can point out the truth of the flaws in the industry, and perhaps, provide an interesting anecdote about The Bigger Picture. That, after all, is the mark of a mature adult.

The next time someone wants to argue the benefits of green energy or the coming mass extinction due to climate change, ask them if they have read this book. If they say no, tell them to come back to the discussion after they finish it.

Happy to recommend to anyone in the industry.

Really enjoyed this book for its clear thinking and excellent arguments. We are bombarded daily with "green propaganda" and it is refreshing to finally have a clear, thoughtful, comprehensive, and moral case for why to use fossil fuels be presented in such a logical and understandable format. The authors insights into the fallacies of the "green" arguments and his emphasis on the incredibly positive contributions that energy has on improving human life were most appreciated. The obvious benefits of using fossil fuels are so enormous and the proven technologies to manage the negatives clearly make the case for the increased use of fossil fuels for the betterment of the human race.

This is a good book, full of valuable information. I saw an interview of the author, Alex Epstein online and bought the book on the strength of that interview. Epstein is an articulate man, well versed in his subject, with a lucid reason why fossil fuels are good for humans. He points out the energy available in fossil fuels is indispensable to the flourishing of mankind. Curtailing the use of that energy without some other source being available will bring death to billions of people. The dire consequences predicted for using fossil fuels have not materialized. The only dire consequences from fossil fuel usage has been in the computer models, and the models have not been accurate. The slight warming of the past century, about a half degree, has been a help, not a hinderance to making this planet livable. Carbon dioxide is a plant fertilizer. Other than hydro and atomic sources, there are no realistic alternatives to fossil fuels. So-called "renewable" sources of energy, wind and solar, are intermittent, therefore not reliable, and the rare earths needed for building wind turbines and solar panels are extremely polluting. Hydro and atomic sources of energy face opposition from environmental groups concerned with safety or esthetic problems.

This is a great book!! It describes everything that fossil fuels have given to the world. Fossil fuels provide us with our wonderful life—our homes, our food, our clothing, our medicines and hospitals, all of our transportationn, computers, cell phoness, etc. You name it and fossil energy is behind it—there is absolutely nothing else on this earth, other than fossil energy, that makes our lives comfortable and safe. Epstein describes the very real problems in the use of, so-called, ‘renewables.’ He explains why converting to them means the death of millions of people around the world.

Too often the public is bombarded by news stories, films and celebrities/politicians stating how fossil fuel energy is an extreme danger to our existence. The mainstream media does not even attempt to show a perspective that might be different from this viewpoint. Alex Epstein has written an intelligent and well referenced book pointing out the growth of industrialized societies due mainly through fossil fuel energy. He raises many excellent points regarding the benefits of fossil fuels. In particular, I was impacted by the idea that United States energy policies against fossil fuels have had an extremely negative effect on economically poor nations. For these people, it is a matter of life or death. The real crime is the elite establishment forcing their agendas on the poor people of the world - people whose lives could be vastly improved by fossil fuel energy. Whether you are for or against decreasing fossil fuel usage, this book is well worth your time to read and become more informed about these issues. Thanks Alex.

Refreshing perspective about one of the most important elements that's made our modern world great. I've heard of many of the difficulties with 'renewables' mostly dealing with intermittency and cost ($ & environment) but rarely do you hear about the scalability when talking about 8 billion people. His main premise is that fossil fuels being cheap, plentiful, and reliable have done the best work for human flourishing and as technology advances the risks are negated. Hardly ever do you hear about a reward/risk comparison when talking about oil, you only hear necessary evils or just end of the world predictions due to climate changes. The issue is the climate IS dangerous but having means ands the ability we can make it as safe as possible for humans.

Epstein makes a good case for the value of fossil fuels, especially in developing countries. And points out, that without them, most Western nations would go backwards into Third World status themselves. The book's a bit repetitive, but worth reading.

I enjoyed the philosophical argument that fossil fuel is even good for the planet. It seems nowadays we have to be careful of blaspheming against the holy narrative of man made climate change, as if it is criticism exempt.

I had never thought of the energy debate as one about morals. A basic fight between those who want to better peoples lives versus those who want to better what they believe to be nature.

Almost to the end in just a few days. Direct, well-referenced and with historical context on many facets of the topic. Developing countries have as much right to inexpensive energy as today's first-world nations did during their development. The author describes in detail, both historically and currently, how those seeking grants and influence thereby sell their credibility as hundreds of their dire predictions have come to nothing. Predictions of the 70s have us all wearing gas masks in the cities by now and also predicted that Britain would be a near-desert wasteland by 2020. The world was to be soon to run out of oil. So many of these negative predictions failed to foresee the ability to "scrub" emissions, failed to foresee advances in oil and gas extraction, and basically underestimated the scientists and engineers who have accomplished so much in the face of such negativity. Dusting off those dire predictions and holding them up to the light gives us some inkling of how likely the new set of dire predictions may play out. New to me was a detailed examination of research indicating accelerated growth in many plants with the slight increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide. One of the best revelations was a side-by-side comparison of global temperature change of the 102 computer models that FAIL epically to predict anything. Only two of the 102 models come anywhere close and even those two overshot reality by a sizeable margin. Truth is: it's complicated far beyond the ability to predict.

So great to see a young Ayn Rand disciple applying the technique of reducing two sides of a debate to their underlying moral premises in this crucial area of energy philosophy. Armed with the moral high ground and empirical data to back up his case, Alex Epstein has earned his place as one of the world leaders in providing clarity and hope to those of us who worry about the destructive potential of the environmental movement.

The author makes case for fossil fuels that even ardent haters should read and consider. This is a well-written book.

Read it 3 times, very well written and superbly thorough! Read this and you'll be able to battle any enviro-nazi with skill and facts!

A must read to cut through all the disinformation regarding fossil fuels.

Great book. Looks at the human reality and how the world has become a better place BECAUSE of fossil fuels.

Should be required reading for schoolkids, and their teachers!

Epstein makes a compelling case for both the benefits of fossil fuels and the case against energy starvation. If you are interested in the politics of fossil fuels this book is for you. He states the obvious about fossil fuels in that it is by far the most concentrated form of solar energy. He shows the comparison to solar collectors, solar cells and wind turbines. The countries that have developed rapidly have had fossil fuel rich industries and thus economies. He also notes how this ultimately has led to cleaner environments in the long term. He indicates that depriving developing countries the use of fossil fuels will condemn them to all manner of plagues including health issues, poverty and deaths secondary to energy deprivation. He also includes a chpater on the global warming versus increased greening secondary to carbon dioxide. If you have an open mind and like philosophically challenging discussions, this book is for you.

Everyone in the oil and gas industry should read this book! Backs up with facts why petroleum products are safe and efficient energy!

This is an eye opening book. I turns the conventional wisdom on fossil fuels and catastrophic climate change on its head. And it does so with patient, clear, well-researched statistics and information on the inestimable benefits of fossil fuels for material civilization -- benefits which we all take for granted but would disappear if fossil fuels were largely eliminated in favor of unreliable "renewables" like wind, solar and biomass. Epstein shows that while the greenhouse effect does exist, global warming is comparatively mild and that past predictions of its catastrophic effects have been wildly inaccurate. This is a path breaking book that is absolutely vital for ensuring mankind's continued survival and well-being. It deserves the widest possible exposure and recommendation.

This book is a refreshing antidote for dire worries emanating from climate change alarmists. Epstein clearly explains that fossil fuels are necessary to maintain our comfortable modern way of life in the foreseeable future. Solar and wind power are not practical alternatives because they are intermittent and require batteries or other power sources for backup during downtimes. Critics tend to ignore the benefits of fossil fuels, while exaggerating their environmental impacts. Without using fossil fuels, developing countries will be denied the benefits of cheap energy. Abundant and cheap energy will enable us to counteract any damage to the environment while future scientific research develops more efficient energy sources. Rather than spending many billions of dollars to reduce CO2 emissions (consider cost per degree of cooling), research should investigate better energy technologies, such as safe nuclear power (think pebble-bed reactors or nuclear fusion).

Thought provoking. Changed a lot of my thinking on global warming and fossil fuels.

Really enjoyed this book for its clear thinking and excellent arguments. We are bombarded daily with "green propaganda" and it is refreshing to finally have a clear, thoughtful, comprehensive, and moral case for why to use fossil fuels be presented in such a logical and understandable format. The authors insights into the fallacies of the "green" arguments and his emphasis on the incredibly positive contributions that energy has on improving human life were most appreciated. The obvious benefits of using fossil fuels are so enormous and the proven technologies to manage the negatives clearly make the case for the increased use of fossil fuels for the betterment of the human race.

This is a good book, full of valuable information. I saw an interview of the author, Alex Epstein online and bought the book on the strength of that interview. Epstein is an articulate man, well versed in his subject, with a lucid reason why fossil fuels are good for humans. He points out the energy available in fossil fuels is indispensable to the flourishing of mankind. Curtailing the use of that energy without some other source being available will bring death to billions of people. The dire consequences predicted for using fossil fuels have not materialized. The only dire consequences from fossil fuel usage has been in the computer models, and the models have not been accurate. The slight warming of the past century, about a half degree, has been a help, not a hinderance to making this planet livable. Carbon dioxide is a plant fertilizer. Other than hydro and atomic sources, there are no realistic alternatives to fossil fuels. So-called "renewable" sources of energy, wind and solar, are intermittent, therefore not reliable, and the rare earths needed for building wind turbines and solar panels are extremely polluting. Hydro and atomic sources of energy face opposition from environmental groups concerned with safety or esthetic problems.

This is a great book!! It describes everything that fossil fuels have given to the world. Fossil fuels provide us with our wonderful life—our homes, our food, our clothing, our medicines and hospitals, all of our transportationn, computers, cell phoness, etc. You name it and fossil energy is behind it—there is absolutely nothing else on this earth, other than fossil energy, that makes our lives comfortable and safe. Epstein describes the very real problems in the use of, so-called, ‘renewables.’ He explains why converting to them means the death of millions of people around the world.

Too often the public is bombarded by news stories, films and celebrities/politicians stating how fossil fuel energy is an extreme danger to our existence. The mainstream media does not even attempt to show a perspective that might be different from this viewpoint. Alex Epstein has written an intelligent and well referenced book pointing out the growth of industrialized societies due mainly through fossil fuel energy. He raises many excellent points regarding the benefits of fossil fuels. In particular, I was impacted by the idea that United States energy policies against fossil fuels have had an extremely negative effect on economically poor nations. For these people, it is a matter of life or death. The real crime is the elite establishment forcing their agendas on the poor people of the world - people whose lives could be vastly improved by fossil fuel energy. Whether you are for or against decreasing fossil fuel usage, this book is well worth your time to read and become more informed about these issues. Thanks Alex.

Refreshing perspective about one of the most important elements that's made our modern world great. I've heard of many of the difficulties with 'renewables' mostly dealing with intermittency and cost ($ & environment) but rarely do you hear about the scalability when talking about 8 billion people. His main premise is that fossil fuels being cheap, plentiful, and reliable have done the best work for human flourishing and as technology advances the risks are negated. Hardly ever do you hear about a reward/risk comparison when talking about oil, you only hear necessary evils or just end of the world predictions due to climate changes. The issue is the climate IS dangerous but having means ands the ability we can make it as safe as possible for humans.

Epstein makes a good case for the value of fossil fuels, especially in developing countries. And points out, that without them, most Western nations would go backwards into Third World status themselves. The book's a bit repetitive, but worth reading.

I enjoyed the philosophical argument that fossil fuel is even good for the planet. It seems nowadays we have to be careful of blaspheming against the holy narrative of man made climate change, as if it is criticism exempt.

I had never thought of the energy debate as one about morals. A basic fight between those who want to better peoples lives versus those who want to better what they believe to be nature.

Almost to the end in just a few days. Direct, well-referenced and with historical context on many facets of the topic. Developing countries have as much right to inexpensive energy as today's first-world nations did during their development. The author describes in detail, both historically and currently, how those seeking grants and influence thereby sell their credibility as hundreds of their dire predictions have come to nothing. Predictions of the 70s have us all wearing gas masks in the cities by now and also predicted that Britain would be a near-desert wasteland by 2020. The world was to be soon to run out of oil. So many of these negative predictions failed to foresee the ability to "scrub" emissions, failed to foresee advances in oil and gas extraction, and basically underestimated the scientists and engineers who have accomplished so much in the face of such negativity. Dusting off those dire predictions and holding them up to the light gives us some inkling of how likely the new set of dire predictions may play out. New to me was a detailed examination of research indicating accelerated growth in many plants with the slight increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide. One of the best revelations was a side-by-side comparison of global temperature change of the 102 computer models that FAIL epically to predict anything. Only two of the 102 models come anywhere close and even those two overshot reality by a sizeable margin. Truth is: it's complicated far beyond the ability to predict.

So great to see a young Ayn Rand disciple applying the technique of reducing two sides of a debate to their underlying moral premises in this crucial area of energy philosophy. Armed with the moral high ground and empirical data to back up his case, Alex Epstein has earned his place as one of the world leaders in providing clarity and hope to those of us who worry about the destructive potential of the environmental movement.

illuminating book. really discusses a side of the climate change debate that most don’t consider

Then cheap, reliable and scalable energy is profoundly good. The author makes a compelling argument that the development of such energy is the foundation of industrial progress. And turns each of us into "superman", amplifying our abilities a hundredfold or more. Fossil fuels power 87% of the world. The past 20 years has seen billions of people lifted out of crippling poverty. Lifted by the introduction of electricity and machines powered by fossil fuels. This is an overwhelmingly positive value to human life. What about the negatives of fossil fuel use? What about the forecasts of catastrophic climate change? Or the immediate real threat of pollution directly harming people? The author isn't blind to the very real risks and concerns with finding and using fossil fuels. But, unlike you'll hear from almost any other source, he puts these risks into the context of the overwhelming benefit fossil fuel provides to humans. And the proven ability fossil fuel gives us to minimize these risks as technology progresses. And calls BS on the biases and prejudices underlying the motivations of the thought leaders of the anti-fossil fuel movement. It's an interesting read and a compelling case for a position diametrically opposed to just about everything else out there. Read it and judge for yourself.

Excellent book of factual evidence that global warming is a hoax!

Great read, important read for public policy on energy.

PEOPLE NEED TO HEAR THIS AND QUIT LISTENING TO THE OVER THE TOP SCARE TACTICS THAT THE ULTRA - LEFT ENVIRONMENTALS USE. EVER NOTICE HOW THEY WANT YOU TO SUBMIT TO THESE RESTRICTIONS, BUT THEY FOR THE MOST PART EXEMPT THEMSELVES. WE ALL SHOULD BE GOOD STEWARDS OF THIS EARTH IT'S THE ONLY ONE WE HAVE ..... BUT WE NEED TO USE COMMON SENSE. WE SHOULD RECYLE IT'S FOOLISH NOT TO DO SO. WE SHOULD NOT POLLUTE AIR AND WATER BUT WE CAN ACHIEVE THESE THINGS BY USING CUTTING EDGE TECHNOLOGY, AND TEACHING AT HOME WHEN CHILDREN ARE YOUNG TO NOT WASTE THINGS AND TO SEE OUR THEIR ACTIONS AFFECT OTHERS.

An excellent book. It's more of a common sense book in that there aren't a lot of facts listed in the book, but there are plenty of footnotes and places to search for the information and the backup data provided. I'd have preferred a book a bit more heavily weighted with facts and figures. The Author does a GREAT job of doing an emotional, moral case of the use of Fossil Fuels. Overall, a good book and one I'll keep, reference back to, highlight and perhaps even loan to others that are needing some backup regarding the use of Fossil Fuels.

It's appropriate that I'm writing this review on Thanksgiving, a holiday in celebration of an abundant harvest. I think the author would approve. As The Moral Case for Fossil Fuels amply demonstrates, the predominately fossil fuel-powered energy industry is perhaps the most productive, life-giving industry of all. Energy is that important, underlying and making possible all the other varied industries that improve our lives in so many ways, from transportation to communication to an agricultural industry able to feed a global population of over seven billion people better than most people have ever been fed. It enables me to write this in a comfortable, climate-controlled home on a cold winter day and with a click of a button to share my thoughts with anyone, anywhere, who cares to read them. It makes it easy for me to travel vastly farther, faster, more safely and at less expense than has been possible to the overwhelming majority of people who have ever lived, again in complete comfort AND with the ability to listen to an unimaginably vast library of music (or any other audio content) of my choice at the touch of a button. And it powers the "smart" devices we all carry around in our pockets or purses that are orders of magnitude more powerful than the technology that put men on the moon, giving us access to more information more readily than any previous generation could have even dreamed of. Not to mention the turkey feast I'm about to enjoy. Clearly, we owe the fossil fuel industry a profound debt of gratitude. It quite literally, to use Epstein's memorable phrase, "adds years to our lives, and life to our years." Without energy, there is no life. With abundant energy, there is abundant life. All that would be enough to rank this book among the most important published this year (or decade), but in The Moral Case for Fossil Fuels, Epstein gives us so much more. Many other reviewers have talked about his excellent discussions of the risks and benefits of using fossil fuels, but perhaps even more important is the methodology Epstein teaches us. That big-picture thinking is just part of it. He also, for instance, lays out the proper way to use experts. This is extremely valuable at a time when the media are prone to browbeat us that all scientists agree, without ever bothering to tell us exactly which scientists think what and for what reasons, or even being very clear about what it is they supposedly agree on. (And we've seen some of the so-called scientists in this debate deliberately suppressing important information about how they derived their data and reached their conclusions.) And yet, Epstein insists that experts are important and we need to take what they say seriously. We could hardly get by without them! But the key, as he aptly summarizes it, is to use experts as advisers, NOT authorities. We should take their reasons into consideration using our own independent judgment, not simply blindly believe what we are told they collectively assert. But for my money, the most valuable idea in the book is Epstein's insistence on approaching the issue by focusing primarily on the positive, while also acknowledging and working to minimize any side effects and risks. If we fail as a society to learn this lesson, we run the even greater risk of allowing our biases and unfounded fears to mislead us into making some very bad decisions. The Moral Case for Fossil Fuels is really a book about the life-or-death necessity of valuing the good, rather than fixating exclusively on what's perceived to be bad, using the fossil fuel industry as an eloquent case study. But we can apply this lesson to improve our thinking about any other industry, issue, or idea. This review is an attempt to apply that lesson to the book itself, and in that spirit, thanks to anyone in the fossil fuel industry who happens to read this for the enormous life-giving value you provide, and thanks Mr. Epstein for providing the even deeper value of moral clarity to underlie the energy industry that underlies all the rest.

No better book for understanding not only why there is a moral case to be made for fossil fuels but also why using fossil fuels is profoundly moral. An important point Mr. Epstein hammers again and again is that in discussions about morals and ethics, one must define one's standard of value. Mr. Epstein's standard of value is human life and human flourishing, as distinguished from those who hold "the planet" or "no impact by humans" as their highest standard of value.

I read a favorable review, agreed with the premise , figured I already knew all about that already but bought the book anyway because I wish to help, in some small way, promote things I think important. It arrived the next day. A quick brows and yes I knew all that, left book on my desk but pushed it aside. A few days later I read a paragraph, hmmmm, and then a few more and proceeded to read the whole thing, wow, I learned a lot. This book should be the basis of a high school course titled Energy 101 for maybe 8/9th grades and Energy 201 for seniors…Is that an impossible dream? After a week reading the book and thinking what more I may do to help get the word out I contributed $1000 to the author who will send books free to qualified students....If you need another good reason to buy this book please read all the one-star reviews, they make the point...

The Moral Case for Fossil Fuels by AlexEpstein A short book report by Ron Housley Tag Line: Healthy Moral Choice or Dangerous Addiction Alex Epstein has led a campaign to bring calm and levelheaded inquiry to the energy/climate activism of the last 2 decades. We have seen from both sides of the “global warming” controversy an unacceptable excess in propagandizing, and precious little in the way of expository science. All of the panels and debates that I have listened to are one-sided and front loaded with premature conclusions about issues which should be subjected to scientific scrutiny. Even the peer reviewed climate literature, it turns out, is censored to favor publication of only a certain range of conclusions(!). The funding for climate “research” comes from two primary sources: (1)from the taxpayer, funding projects generally supporting the conclusion that industrial energy should be limited by government imposed force; and (2)from the fossil fuel industry, supporting the conclusion that government should not inject force to limit industrial energy. As best I can tell, the funding for source #1 (government) is on the order of over 20 times that coming from source #2 (industry itself). It is no wonder, then, that a propaganda war has ensued; that trillions of dollars are at stake; that would-be personal fortunes are on the table; that neither side is willing to budge in the struggle. With government funding one side against the other, it is no wonder that careers are literally built and sustained on government grants to academic institutions and to personalities associated with those institutions. As Alex Epstein sketched out the “bigger picture” of climate and carbon dioxide, I couldn’t help but recall the History Channel’s show on “How the Earth Was Made.” That broadcast made it clear that in earth’s 4+ billion year history, there has been ongoing shifts from ice ages to tropical world- wide temperatures and back to ice again — all without man- created CO2(!). I learned that earth’s atmospheric CO2 was 1,200ppm in the Jurassic period and 17,000ppm during the Cambria period, when the greatest number of species were alive — in contrast to the 400ppm that we have today. Epstein approaches his subject with the goal of painting a full context, pointing out the popularly overlooked, life-saving and life-promoting benefits of fossil fuels. It seems that the “narrative journalism” which has dominated climate reporting is wildly anxious to diminish or ignore the life-promoting features of fossil fuels, while it focuses on predicting disaster based on (scores of ) computer models, each with an abysmal record of failure. The computer models predict significant temperature increase — and then in reality there is no actual increase. The “scientists” then double down and stage press releases that we are on the doorstep of climate disaster, nonetheless. Brian Williams would have no hesitation in reporting these ravings as scientific fact. The public follows, without questioning. Politicians then follow, also, demanding new and onerous restrictions on our liberties, all in the name of those flawed computer models. So, what we have here is a nice little book that “talks to us” with enough of a personal touch that it doesn’t have that propagandistic feel. As it tries to engage us with its compelling “realness,” I can’t help but wonder what reactions are being provoked in all those government school graduates who have been indoctrinated with the notion that fossil fuels are dirty and that the CO2, which their use releases is supposed to destroy us all. The book is filled with tons of comparisons and analogies to help us appreciate the relevance of an idea. For instance, consider this one: When a life-saving antibiotic turns out to have unwanted side effects, is that our signal to ban the antibiotic, or to lessen its use to 1946 levels? That’s the type of question Alex Epstein beckons us to ask in the face of today’s cries to dismantle industrial civilization in order to save the planet for all the lesser creatures. It seems that we are witnessing an orgy of attempting to outlaw life-fostering technologies, passing laws to regulate those vital technologies. We’ve all heard President Obama tell us that under his plan (of shutting down coal-fired power plants) that “the cost of energy will necessarily skyrocket.” But Epstein retorts that under that logic, the problem of too many car accidents can be handled by taxing car companies so much that “the cost of cars will necessarily skyrocket.” In the end, what we have is a moral question: which approach is right for us to pursue? Will the continued and expanded use of fossil fuels be best for human life? Or, should we ban penicillin because there are some unwanted side effects? Or, is NOT using fossil fuels a bigger risk to humanity than using fossil fuels? In just the last decade, hundreds of millions of people (China and India) have risen out of poverty for the first time ever; and it could not have been possible without fossil fuel energy. If our politicians outlaw fossil fuels, these people will be returned to poverty; and advanced peoples will be forced into stagnation. A vast movement has grown up with the mission to shut down industrial civilization: an explicit goal of Bill McKibben’s “Three fifty dot org” (350.org). The group’s name is derived from the notion that atmospheric CO2 levels above 350 ppm (parts per million) are unsafe — in spite of the known fact that life prospered on earth when the CO2 levels were over forty times more than that). Remember: entire blocks of our culture have been indoctrinated to believe that human life doesn’t matter. So, which risk do you think is really greater: not using fossil fuels or using more of them? Epstein offers us a balanced look at this important question. Pick it up this week and give it a look. Nice job, Alex!

Really enjoyed this book for its clear thinking and excellent arguments. We are bombarded daily with "green propaganda" and it is refreshing to finally have a clear, thoughtful, comprehensive, and moral case for why to use fossil fuels be presented in such a logical and understandable format. The authors insights into the fallacies of the "green" arguments and his emphasis on the incredibly positive contributions that energy has on improving human life were most appreciated. The obvious benefits of using fossil fuels are so enormous and the proven technologies to manage the negatives clearly make the case for the increased use of fossil fuels for the betterment of the human race.

This is a good book, full of valuable information. I saw an interview of the author, Alex Epstein online and bought the book on the strength of that interview. Epstein is an articulate man, well versed in his subject, with a lucid reason why fossil fuels are good for humans. He points out the energy available in fossil fuels is indispensable to the flourishing of mankind. Curtailing the use of that energy without some other source being available will bring death to billions of people. The dire consequences predicted for using fossil fuels have not materialized. The only dire consequences from fossil fuel usage has been in the computer models, and the models have not been accurate. The slight warming of the past century, about a half degree, has been a help, not a hinderance to making this planet livable. Carbon dioxide is a plant fertilizer. Other than hydro and atomic sources, there are no realistic alternatives to fossil fuels. So-called "renewable" sources of energy, wind and solar, are intermittent, therefore not reliable, and the rare earths needed for building wind turbines and solar panels are extremely polluting. Hydro and atomic sources of energy face opposition from environmental groups concerned with safety or esthetic problems.

This is a great book!! It describes everything that fossil fuels have given to the world. Fossil fuels provide us with our wonderful life—our homes, our food, our clothing, our medicines and hospitals, all of our transportationn, computers, cell phoness, etc. You name it and fossil energy is behind it—there is absolutely nothing else on this earth, other than fossil energy, that makes our lives comfortable and safe. Epstein describes the very real problems in the use of, so-called, ‘renewables.’ He explains why converting to them means the death of millions of people around the world.

Too often the public is bombarded by news stories, films and celebrities/politicians stating how fossil fuel energy is an extreme danger to our existence. The mainstream media does not even attempt to show a perspective that might be different from this viewpoint. Alex Epstein has written an intelligent and well referenced book pointing out the growth of industrialized societies due mainly through fossil fuel energy. He raises many excellent points regarding the benefits of fossil fuels. In particular, I was impacted by the idea that United States energy policies against fossil fuels have had an extremely negative effect on economically poor nations. For these people, it is a matter of life or death. The real crime is the elite establishment forcing their agendas on the poor people of the world - people whose lives could be vastly improved by fossil fuel energy. Whether you are for or against decreasing fossil fuel usage, this book is well worth your time to read and become more informed about these issues. Thanks Alex.

Refreshing perspective about one of the most important elements that's made our modern world great. I've heard of many of the difficulties with 'renewables' mostly dealing with intermittency and cost ($ & environment) but rarely do you hear about the scalability when talking about 8 billion people. His main premise is that fossil fuels being cheap, plentiful, and reliable have done the best work for human flourishing and as technology advances the risks are negated. Hardly ever do you hear about a reward/risk comparison when talking about oil, you only hear necessary evils or just end of the world predictions due to climate changes. The issue is the climate IS dangerous but having means ands the ability we can make it as safe as possible for humans.

Epstein makes a good case for the value of fossil fuels, especially in developing countries. And points out, that without them, most Western nations would go backwards into Third World status themselves. The book's a bit repetitive, but worth reading.

I enjoyed the philosophical argument that fossil fuel is even good for the planet. It seems nowadays we have to be careful of blaspheming against the holy narrative of man made climate change, as if it is criticism exempt.

I had never thought of the energy debate as one about morals. A basic fight between those who want to better peoples lives versus those who want to better what they believe to be nature.

Almost to the end in just a few days. Direct, well-referenced and with historical context on many facets of the topic. Developing countries have as much right to inexpensive energy as today's first-world nations did during their development. The author describes in detail, both historically and currently, how those seeking grants and influence thereby sell their credibility as hundreds of their dire predictions have come to nothing. Predictions of the 70s have us all wearing gas masks in the cities by now and also predicted that Britain would be a near-desert wasteland by 2020. The world was to be soon to run out of oil. So many of these negative predictions failed to foresee the ability to "scrub" emissions, failed to foresee advances in oil and gas extraction, and basically underestimated the scientists and engineers who have accomplished so much in the face of such negativity. Dusting off those dire predictions and holding them up to the light gives us some inkling of how likely the new set of dire predictions may play out. New to me was a detailed examination of research indicating accelerated growth in many plants with the slight increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide. One of the best revelations was a side-by-side comparison of global temperature change of the 102 computer models that FAIL epically to predict anything. Only two of the 102 models come anywhere close and even those two overshot reality by a sizeable margin. Truth is: it's complicated far beyond the ability to predict.

So great to see a young Ayn Rand disciple applying the technique of reducing two sides of a debate to their underlying moral premises in this crucial area of energy philosophy. Armed with the moral high ground and empirical data to back up his case, Alex Epstein has earned his place as one of the world leaders in providing clarity and hope to those of us who worry about the destructive potential of the environmental movement.

According to Alex Epstein, a host of prejudices are responsible for the false idea that fossil fuel usage is harming the planet. Alex avers that, in fact, fossil fuels are a boon to mankind and will continue to be so far into the future. In this book, Epstein takes the arguments of the environmentalists apart and shows that they are false. He offers an alternative argument that reveals the value of fossil fuels in the full context of their history and the benefits they provide. Fossil fuels, in his estimation, are the cure for a poor environment and the cause of man’s flourishing. Throughout the book, Alex drives his case home, through facts, statistics, charts and logical arguments. He concludes that the environmentalists are not only misguided, but they are also engaged in a war to destroy progress, society and human success. They refuse to see the “big picture” when it comes to the value of fossil fuels. This book is destined to be a turning point in our understanding of fossil fuels. Through Alex's careful argumentation, it provides the full context that the environmentalists ignore. Alex informs us that if man is to have a future, he must embrace fossil fuels.

An exceptional book that brings together original insights and lots of good data. It's greatest virtue is that it seeks to put the energy debate back on fundamentals and questions the very standards we should use in the debate. Epstein suggests that the standard we should employ is human life and that we should consider all energy questions in terms of whether human life will be improved or harmed. This is, I think, a radical shift in the debates and one which was much needed.

OK, you can read meteorologist/statistician Matt Briggs' review http://wmbriggs.com/blog/?p=13701 and find out all about the book, or, you can read any of the excellent descriptive reviews at Amazon. My review doesn't focus on those attributes of the book. My review focuses on its importance. A World Class Book on a World Class Topic by an unknown writer. Perhaps the most singular polarizing topic one could ever conceive and the one the greatest number of people seem to know the least about. Energy and its importance to civilization as we know it. It's that simple. Concise, convincing and concrete, Alex Epstein's rock-solid arguments favoring fossil fuels form the foundation for change -- if enough people read it. Change in attitudes, beliefs and myths -- long overdue in America -- could become the stuff of legends. Imagine the possibilities cheap, reliable and plentiful energy would provide. Now, connect the dots and imagine that fossil-fuel-powered world totally connected via the internet. Epstein dutifully does his part providing the essential energy knowledge everyone needs to rationally evaluate what it means to be alive in the 21st Century. Now, do your part and read this book. Now.

If Rick Perry had read this book before trying to pretend to support all that Green energy religion during his grilling by Congress, he'd be much better prepared to explain to fools why fossil fuels are so superior to the alternatives for so many different but compelling reasons. It amazes me that anyone in the industry or in public office remain so ignorant of the facts and simply assume that the Green zealots have some kind of claim on morale superiority when, in fact, most of them are pursuing wasteful dreams that--until we can solve a lot of other technical problems--will never be able to truly replace fossil fuels and at any acceptable economic cost. Didn't give it 5 stars simply because I found it a bit repetitive in several chapters--but I've got geology, environmental engineering, paleoenvironmental, and MBA degrees so perhaps get bored with the obvious pretty quickly. This book was really written for the general public and environmentalists who haven't consumed so much of the Kool-Aid that they can no longer think. It does a great job of pointing out the differences between how humanists and anti-humanists approach solutions and measure unacceptable risks. If the standard is an anti-humanist minimize any impact on the environment, you aren't far from accepting a zealot perception that humans are a virus upon the earth and then a massive plague starts looking like a pretty good solution to minimizing mans impact on the earth. But if you care about people there are very clear and documented facts showing that the more energy we use, the better off populations are in terms of health, education, longevity, access to healthcare, protection against famine, coastal resiliency, and yes--even environmental health. If the problem is overpopulation why did it take over 50% of the population to feed us when that population was only a fraction of what exists today? And how can some 3% of the population feed all of us and export food around the earth to others in need today? Energy!

When I first started looking for a career, I had one goal in mind: providing for my current & future family. I figured the first step was finding out what the highest paying jobs were and then narrowing it down by comparing what was out there to my (lack of) skill set. I received advice from several mentors and took into consideration what I might actually enjoy doing. Ultimately, I ended up at an oil and gas company. Up until a few weeks ago, I was of the opinion (like most) that we were simply big oil, a necessary evil needed temporarily until we finally switch over to the "good" types of energy. You know, we had economic benefits, but at the same time we were "killing" the planet and the people who inhabit it. My perspective was so narrow and I had no idea. In an effort to develop my understanding of energy as a whole (simply to be better at my job), I came across "The Moral Case for Fossil Fuels" (by Alex Epstein) and read several of the reviews/summaries. I could not believe that someone was not only saying we shouldn't slow down production and usage of fossil fuels, but that we should INCREASE production and usage; moreover, that it would improve the environment and every major measurement of human livelihood. I thought, "okay, I'll humor you. $20 on amazon, pretty short read, I'll find holes in his theory quickly and go on maybe with a few fun facts for work conversation." I won't go into all of his arguments, but I will say that they drastically changed my perception of the fossil fuel industry and changed the argument from a economic standpoint (which is why I have been pro-necessary evil in the past) to a question of morality. At the very least, I recommend picking up a copy to understand how energy (he goes into each form) works. I geeked out over all of the data and loved following Epstein's rationality. If you work in the fossil fuel industry, know someone who does, or are simply interested in how energy impacts people--I would highly, highly, recommend taking 4-5 hours to read this book. You won't be disappointed.

An amazing must read book! Someone had to make us think outside of the mainstream box, and Alex Epstein did just that. He certainly approaches the fossil fuel topic from an angle that nobody else ever did. I challenge you to put aside all the conventional crowd prejudice “thinking”, be open-minded, read carefully, and check your premises! I certainly did.

Alex Epstein makes you realize how much better your life is because of Fossil Fuels. There is such a war against burning HC based fuels and Epstein shows us how we tame our planet with them. From being able to survive severe weather to living in places that would be inhospitable without Fossil Fuels.

The book is well written, easy to read and its arguments are well explained with supporting facts and examples. Its basic premise is implied in the title, the use of fossil fuels is essential to supporting human life. The book defines the standard, human life, as the reference as it discusses the advantages and disadvantages of using fossil fuels. The book provides a critically required view in ongoing environmental discussions. It should be read by fossil fuel proponents and opponents and its positions embraced, modified or logically refuted. The book should not be consigned to the dust bin of history to avoid refuting its arguments.

Excellent. And much needed work. It examines the implications of global warming in ways that most environmental advocates fail to consider. The debate should be not about whether of not humans can and are affecting the environment. Opponents of fossil fuels frequently cite the 97% figure of scientists that agree about global warming. But Epstein contends that this is a very misleading number. It does not represent any agreement that scientist have about the magnitude, rate, or significance of carbon emissions upon climate warming or its impact upon the human welfare. Are there any positive side effects of CO2? Do increasing CO2 emissions affect temperature at decreasing rates? Are there any positives to fossil fuel use? As economists we look for trade offs. Alex Epstein also examines the philosophic underpinnings of the anti-fossil fuel arguments. The fundamental assumption that nature is perfect and that man can harm the environment or that nature must be presumptively "right" and man should minimize his footprint is at root an anti-human paradigm. If the goal is to improve the well-being of human beings we will consider negative consequences of our actions, but not abandon development. Development means transforming nature into more hospitable human environments. Epstein presents data for instance that show dramatic declines in human deaths from natural disasters (hurricanes, earthquakes etc.) with the rise of economic prosperity and fossil fuel use. Of course life spans continue to increase especially in the less developed world. As we transform nature (wild forests) we improve the environment. Yes, as Epstein remarks we want to spend some of our growth on reducing pollution and set-aside parks and nature preserves. But we do this because we can afford to. It is part of the process of human development, not an exception. The environmental ethic sets pristine nature up as an object that man can only defile.

Book Review: The Moral Case for Fossil Fuels Author: Alex Epstein Format: Hardback Topic: Environmental Studies Scope: The impact of fossil fuels on the world. Purpose: To convince the public that we should be using more, not less, fossil fuels. Structure: The book has nine chapters. These chapters are (very) roughly separated into an introduction and explanation of why Epstein wrote the book (1), why fossil fuels are beneficial for humanity (2, 3,4, and 5), a case against *worrying* about climate change (4, 6, and 7), and what we should do in the future (8, and 9). What it does well: *This book lays out a fairly good explanation of why some people can in fact believe in climate change (and even anthropogenic climate change) but still believe much (if not all) of the current call for sanctions and scaling back of fossil fuels is misguided. *Epstein lays out his case for his worldview well. In this book it takes the form of his argument in favor of human flourishing and the continuing of human life rather than the preservation of nature for its own sake. *Lastly (though this is not all that is done well), Epstein reminds the reader that nature is not normally beneficial and friendly to humanity, but instead nature is normally hostile and harmful to humanity. What it lacks: *This book is cold and unforgiving. There are a few parts where Epstein tries to include moving stories to help make his case, but they don't really change the overall tone of the book. He may have accomplished his purpose of making a case for fossil fuel use, but don't expect to be moved emotionally. To be fair to him, that wasn't his purpose. Some quick highlights: "Eighty-seven percent of the energy mankind uses every second, including most of the energy I am using as I write this, comes from burning one of the fossil fuels: coal, oil, or natural gas."-2 "This book is about morality, about right and wrong. To me, the question of what to do about fossil fuels and any other moral issue comes down to: What will promote human life? What will promote human flourishing-realizing the full potential of life?"-13 "the 'experts' almost always focus on the risks of a technology but never the benefits... ...there is little to no focus on the benefits of cheap, reliable energy from fossil fuels. This is a failure to think big picture, to consider all the benefits and all the risks."-15 "...we need experts to explain to us how they reached their conclusions, and make sure they are not overstepping the bounds of their knowledge, which is incredibly common"-27 "More energy means more ability to improve our lives; less energy means less ability-more helplessness, more suffering, and more death."-39 "If fossil fuels have catastrophic consequences and it makes sense to use a lot less of them, that would be an epic tragedy, given the state of the alternatives right now. Being forced to rely on solar, wind, and biofuels would be a horror beyond anything we can imagine, as a civilization that runs on cheap, plentiful, reliable energy would see its machines dead, its productivity destroyed, its resources disappearing."-87 "We don't take a safe climate and make it dangerous; we take a dangerous climate and make it safe. High-energy civilization, not climate, is the driver of climate livability."-126 "Mankind's use of fossil fuels is supremely virtuous-because human life is the standard of value, and because using fossil fuels transforms our environment to make it wonderful for human life."-209 Recommendation?: I wasn't particularly interested in this topic. However, a friend and I read books together and this is the one he picked. I am glad I read it. I am not a denier of climate change or of global warming, but I have often wondered why so many people don't look at the costs/risks/benefits of the issue in total. This book is not the end all of the debate, but it does show that a substantial case can be made for continuing to use fossil fuels. It has not changed my mind (I am still hugely agnostic as this is not a huge area of knowledge for me), but it has provided some real thought fodder. This book should definitely be read by those interested in the subject.

Really enjoyed this book for its clear thinking and excellent arguments. We are bombarded daily with "green propaganda" and it is refreshing to finally have a clear, thoughtful, comprehensive, and moral case for why to use fossil fuels be presented in such a logical and understandable format. The authors insights into the fallacies of the "green" arguments and his emphasis on the incredibly positive contributions that energy has on improving human life were most appreciated. The obvious benefits of using fossil fuels are so enormous and the proven technologies to manage the negatives clearly make the case for the increased use of fossil fuels for the betterment of the human race.

This is a good book, full of valuable information. I saw an interview of the author, Alex Epstein online and bought the book on the strength of that interview. Epstein is an articulate man, well versed in his subject, with a lucid reason why fossil fuels are good for humans. He points out the energy available in fossil fuels is indispensable to the flourishing of mankind. Curtailing the use of that energy without some other source being available will bring death to billions of people. The dire consequences predicted for using fossil fuels have not materialized. The only dire consequences from fossil fuel usage has been in the computer models, and the models have not been accurate. The slight warming of the past century, about a half degree, has been a help, not a hinderance to making this planet livable. Carbon dioxide is a plant fertilizer. Other than hydro and atomic sources, there are no realistic alternatives to fossil fuels. So-called "renewable" sources of energy, wind and solar, are intermittent, therefore not reliable, and the rare earths needed for building wind turbines and solar panels are extremely polluting. Hydro and atomic sources of energy face opposition from environmental groups concerned with safety or esthetic problems.

This is a great book!! It describes everything that fossil fuels have given to the world. Fossil fuels provide us with our wonderful life—our homes, our food, our clothing, our medicines and hospitals, all of our transportationn, computers, cell phoness, etc. You name it and fossil energy is behind it—there is absolutely nothing else on this earth, other than fossil energy, that makes our lives comfortable and safe. Epstein describes the very real problems in the use of, so-called, ‘renewables.’ He explains why converting to them means the death of millions of people around the world.

Too often the public is bombarded by news stories, films and celebrities/politicians stating how fossil fuel energy is an extreme danger to our existence. The mainstream media does not even attempt to show a perspective that might be different from this viewpoint. Alex Epstein has written an intelligent and well referenced book pointing out the growth of industrialized societies due mainly through fossil fuel energy. He raises many excellent points regarding the benefits of fossil fuels. In particular, I was impacted by the idea that United States energy policies against fossil fuels have had an extremely negative effect on economically poor nations. For these people, it is a matter of life or death. The real crime is the elite establishment forcing their agendas on the poor people of the world - people whose lives could be vastly improved by fossil fuel energy. Whether you are for or against decreasing fossil fuel usage, this book is well worth your time to read and become more informed about these issues. Thanks Alex.

Refreshing perspective about one of the most important elements that's made our modern world great. I've heard of many of the difficulties with 'renewables' mostly dealing with intermittency and cost ($ & environment) but rarely do you hear about the scalability when talking about 8 billion people. His main premise is that fossil fuels being cheap, plentiful, and reliable have done the best work for human flourishing and as technology advances the risks are negated. Hardly ever do you hear about a reward/risk comparison when talking about oil, you only hear necessary evils or just end of the world predictions due to climate changes. The issue is the climate IS dangerous but having means ands the ability we can make it as safe as possible for humans.

Epstein makes a good case for the value of fossil fuels, especially in developing countries. And points out, that without them, most Western nations would go backwards into Third World status themselves. The book's a bit repetitive, but worth reading.

I enjoyed the philosophical argument that fossil fuel is even good for the planet. It seems nowadays we have to be careful of blaspheming against the holy narrative of man made climate change, as if it is criticism exempt.

I had never thought of the energy debate as one about morals. A basic fight between those who want to better peoples lives versus those who want to better what they believe to be nature.

Almost to the end in just a few days. Direct, well-referenced and with historical context on many facets of the topic. Developing countries have as much right to inexpensive energy as today's first-world nations did during their development. The author describes in detail, both historically and currently, how those seeking grants and influence thereby sell their credibility as hundreds of their dire predictions have come to nothing. Predictions of the 70s have us all wearing gas masks in the cities by now and also predicted that Britain would be a near-desert wasteland by 2020. The world was to be soon to run out of oil. So many of these negative predictions failed to foresee the ability to "scrub" emissions, failed to foresee advances in oil and gas extraction, and basically underestimated the scientists and engineers who have accomplished so much in the face of such negativity. Dusting off those dire predictions and holding them up to the light gives us some inkling of how likely the new set of dire predictions may play out. New to me was a detailed examination of research indicating accelerated growth in many plants with the slight increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide. One of the best revelations was a side-by-side comparison of global temperature change of the 102 computer models that FAIL epically to predict anything. Only two of the 102 models come anywhere close and even those two overshot reality by a sizeable margin. Truth is: it's complicated far beyond the ability to predict.

So great to see a young Ayn Rand disciple applying the technique of reducing two sides of a debate to their underlying moral premises in this crucial area of energy philosophy. Armed with the moral high ground and empirical data to back up his case, Alex Epstein has earned his place as one of the world leaders in providing clarity and hope to those of us who worry about the destructive potential of the environmental movement.

This was time well spent on some meaningful reading. If you're against our use of Fossil Fuels you probably won't change your opinion regardless of what you read but if you read this book you might rethink your position. This book has led me to proudly proclaim, "I LOVE FOSSIL FUELS". I plan on getting the t-shirt.

Finally, a book devoid of the 'religious fervor of green'. A well written, well considered, clear-eyed assessment of the positive role of fossil fuels in the evolution of our species and an unapologetic case for the need to continue both use and development of creative uses of the rich vein of fossil fuels this abundant earth contains

Epstein makes an extremely convincing case for why we should continue to use fossil fuels. There's so much rhetoric around being a "believer" vs a "denier" of climate change. Really, it should be a question of magnitude. How much will our climate change because of X? Will it be drastic or mild at worst? Too often, climate "experts" try to scare the public without using valid models. Epstein does a great job at pointing out the historical trends and using data to back up his theories. When green people refuse to accept hydroeletric and nuclear power (two very clean energies with loads of potential), you know that something is up. The truth is, fossil fuels have helped humans out tremendously. We've weathered storms, disease, and famine, with our abundance of energy. Engineers are constantly looking for ways to reduce the negatives of fossil fuels, and it'd be better to look at the facts, and not demonize. A great job by Epstein as well for having the balls to take such an unpopular stance.

This is shaping up as the most important book of the year. The story is quite simple, but startling in how much it differs from the conventional or dominant framework. Fossil fuels are essential to the flourishing of humanity. They are a necessary ingredient in our escape from the cruel, hostile, uncomfortable and short lived MALTHUSIAN conditions which existed until recently. The attacks on fossil fuels ignore the benefits which coal, natural gas and petroleum do in all aspects of life, and they exaggerate the negative externalities and disregard the positive externalities. The majority of people alive today owe both their lives and their standard of living to fossil fuels. We forget this at our peril. Fossil fuels even propel the economies necessary to find their own replacement. This is a book everyone should read and share with friends.

Having read the "Population Bomb" when Paul Earhart first published it in the early 70's, Epstein's "Moral Case for Fossil Fuels" allows you to finally understand the rationale for the case by environmentalists' to oppose fossil fuels. It is an easy and convincing read, certainly vital to see what largely motivates the E movement. (Please change writers name to John M. Mizenko. Thank you).

Just like fossil fuels, Epstein's book is of enormous value to human life. If you are convinced that earth is headed toward catastrophic climate change, or you think humans can't possibly affect climate, The Moral Case for Fossil Fuels makes clear that the last solution to any of mankind's alleged ills should be to stop using fossil fuels.

This is a very clever book from an unorthodox viewpoint. It is also well-researched and presented in easily understood language. Alex Epstein makes a compelling argument that there is nothing more important to advancing the welfare of mankind than affordable energy. No matter what your preconceptions on fossil fuels may be, this is some serious food for thought!

I enrolled at a university in 1971 and was confronted with demonstrators wanting to eliminate the use of fossil fuels because "all scientists" agreed that by 2000 the earth would be inhabitable. Because of pollution blocking the sun we would return to an ice age. Instead we have more than doubled use of fossil fuels and the environment is much better. Human life has improved greatly as well. It's scary how public thinking has been manipulated. Read this before deciding what is true.

This is the only book I've read that makes a strong and well-reasoned case for the use of fossil fuels and against climatologists. It does so not by disproving the climate models, but by presenting how essential fossil fuels are to our current existence and how discontinuing their use will kill people now - not potential people in some potential climate model future. He explains that no matter what the form, alternative energy is not up to the task of fully replacing fossil fuels at this time. Reduction of fossil fuel use will cause massive suffering especially in the third world. Increased use will cause great wealth and advancements in technology that will make us capable of replacing fossil fuels.

Epstein writes, as always, in a clear and authoritative manner. His thesis, I believe, is sound and needs to be taken seriously by the politicians and bureaucrats responsible for pushing the replacement of fossil fuel with unsustainable alternatives. Try giving the peoples of Africa a decent life without the utilisation of fossil fuel technologies. A book to read carefully and a thesis to listen to.

Really enjoyed this book for its clear thinking and excellent arguments. We are bombarded daily with "green propaganda" and it is refreshing to finally have a clear, thoughtful, comprehensive, and moral case for why to use fossil fuels be presented in such a logical and understandable format. The authors insights into the fallacies of the "green" arguments and his emphasis on the incredibly positive contributions that energy has on improving human life were most appreciated. The obvious benefits of using fossil fuels are so enormous and the proven technologies to manage the negatives clearly make the case for the increased use of fossil fuels for the betterment of the human race.

This is a good book, full of valuable information. I saw an interview of the author, Alex Epstein online and bought the book on the strength of that interview. Epstein is an articulate man, well versed in his subject, with a lucid reason why fossil fuels are good for humans. He points out the energy available in fossil fuels is indispensable to the flourishing of mankind. Curtailing the use of that energy without some other source being available will bring death to billions of people. The dire consequences predicted for using fossil fuels have not materialized. The only dire consequences from fossil fuel usage has been in the computer models, and the models have not been accurate. The slight warming of the past century, about a half degree, has been a help, not a hinderance to making this planet livable. Carbon dioxide is a plant fertilizer. Other than hydro and atomic sources, there are no realistic alternatives to fossil fuels. So-called "renewable" sources of energy, wind and solar, are intermittent, therefore not reliable, and the rare earths needed for building wind turbines and solar panels are extremely polluting. Hydro and atomic sources of energy face opposition from environmental groups concerned with safety or esthetic problems.

This is a great book!! It describes everything that fossil fuels have given to the world. Fossil fuels provide us with our wonderful life—our homes, our food, our clothing, our medicines and hospitals, all of our transportationn, computers, cell phoness, etc. You name it and fossil energy is behind it—there is absolutely nothing else on this earth, other than fossil energy, that makes our lives comfortable and safe. Epstein describes the very real problems in the use of, so-called, ‘renewables.’ He explains why converting to them means the death of millions of people around the world.

Too often the public is bombarded by news stories, films and celebrities/politicians stating how fossil fuel energy is an extreme danger to our existence. The mainstream media does not even attempt to show a perspective that might be different from this viewpoint. Alex Epstein has written an intelligent and well referenced book pointing out the growth of industrialized societies due mainly through fossil fuel energy. He raises many excellent points regarding the benefits of fossil fuels. In particular, I was impacted by the idea that United States energy policies against fossil fuels have had an extremely negative effect on economically poor nations. For these people, it is a matter of life or death. The real crime is the elite establishment forcing their agendas on the poor people of the world - people whose lives could be vastly improved by fossil fuel energy. Whether you are for or against decreasing fossil fuel usage, this book is well worth your time to read and become more informed about these issues. Thanks Alex.

Refreshing perspective about one of the most important elements that's made our modern world great. I've heard of many of the difficulties with 'renewables' mostly dealing with intermittency and cost ($ & environment) but rarely do you hear about the scalability when talking about 8 billion people. His main premise is that fossil fuels being cheap, plentiful, and reliable have done the best work for human flourishing and as technology advances the risks are negated. Hardly ever do you hear about a reward/risk comparison when talking about oil, you only hear necessary evils or just end of the world predictions due to climate changes. The issue is the climate IS dangerous but having means ands the ability we can make it as safe as possible for humans.

Epstein makes a good case for the value of fossil fuels, especially in developing countries. And points out, that without them, most Western nations would go backwards into Third World status themselves. The book's a bit repetitive, but worth reading.

I enjoyed the philosophical argument that fossil fuel is even good for the planet. It seems nowadays we have to be careful of blaspheming against the holy narrative of man made climate change, as if it is criticism exempt.

I had never thought of the energy debate as one about morals. A basic fight between those who want to better peoples lives versus those who want to better what they believe to be nature.

Almost to the end in just a few days. Direct, well-referenced and with historical context on many facets of the topic. Developing countries have as much right to inexpensive energy as today's first-world nations did during their development. The author describes in detail, both historically and currently, how those seeking grants and influence thereby sell their credibility as hundreds of their dire predictions have come to nothing. Predictions of the 70s have us all wearing gas masks in the cities by now and also predicted that Britain would be a near-desert wasteland by 2020. The world was to be soon to run out of oil. So many of these negative predictions failed to foresee the ability to "scrub" emissions, failed to foresee advances in oil and gas extraction, and basically underestimated the scientists and engineers who have accomplished so much in the face of such negativity. Dusting off those dire predictions and holding them up to the light gives us some inkling of how likely the new set of dire predictions may play out. New to me was a detailed examination of research indicating accelerated growth in many plants with the slight increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide. One of the best revelations was a side-by-side comparison of global temperature change of the 102 computer models that FAIL epically to predict anything. Only two of the 102 models come anywhere close and even those two overshot reality by a sizeable margin. Truth is: it's complicated far beyond the ability to predict.

So great to see a young Ayn Rand disciple applying the technique of reducing two sides of a debate to their underlying moral premises in this crucial area of energy philosophy. Armed with the moral high ground and empirical data to back up his case, Alex Epstein has earned his place as one of the world leaders in providing clarity and hope to those of us who worry about the destructive potential of the environmental movement.

This book evaluates fossil fuels from a profoundly humanist viewpoint by asking the question, "Are these energy source good, on balance, for the lives of humans on earth?" Epstein argues convincingly that human life is the proper standard, not a standard of zero-disturbance to the environment.

Epstein is clearly a propnent for the well being of humanity. This is a must read if you think we are addicted to fossil fuels or have questions about energy sources,

I'm familiar with the arguments against, but have never been provided with such a compelling defense of fossil fuels. The book was informative and easy to read. I would highly recommend this book to anyone interested in the topic especially if you hold a position against fossil fuel use.

Excellent interpretation of political arguments for Clean energy. One nuclear accident ruins your whole day! Cheap energy drives your economy. Digital age requires electricity, produced by coal fired generation.

Finally, someone who thinks for himself instead of bleating the same old global warming drivel. Epstein's book is a breath of fresh air compared to the witless chant of the wing-nut Eco-drones, lobbyists, special interest groups, useful idiots, and the emotionally immature who continually ignore the satellite temperature data and the 18+ year pause in warming - not to mention the academic fraud exposed in the leaked CRU Climategate email. Fossil fuels have increased the benefit of mankind by magnitudes in every measure of importance. This book is a much needed voice to counter the self-loating of the human sacrifice crew of Warmists and the corruption of science for political agendas. An adult enters the discussion where previously only self-serving teenage contrarians participated. Bravo, Mr. Epstein.

Mr. Epstein presents the facts as he should, and lets them make the case for him. Facts, not feelings. That's the way it should be. Highly recommended.

Don't read this book unless you are willing to think through facts you may have known but not considered connected to the use of hydrocarbons. I'm betting some people who thought they could withstand a very cogent argument challenging their own belief system found out otherwise and threw this book across the room when they got to the second chapter. Truth can be that hard to swallow. Stick with it until the end. Your future, the planet's may even depend on it.

This is an excellent book that should be on every reading list of every high school and college student, as well as every adult! Clearly, fossil fuels has not only benefited mankind but has saved billions of lives. It has also led to reduced pollution and unleashed the creative potential in many, many people.

Outstanding book, highly recommended. I've written a longer review of the book that you can read on my website: https://andymaypetrophysicist.com/2016/08/12/review-and-summary-of-the-moral-case-for-fossil-fuels/

This is easily one of the best books that I read in a long time. The fossil fuel industry is literally keeping us alive by being the only large scale source of cheap, practical energy. And yet it is also one of the most hated industries today. This book not only exposes the culture-wide dissonance of wanting to hate our fossil fuels and consume them too, but also offers a compelling argument for why we should be thanking the industry for everything that it makes possible. The author addresses all controversies head on, whether they be about pollution, climate change, or the claims that we are running out of oil. The arguments are provocative and compelling but the orientation is always urging us to look at the facts and keep the big picture in mind, rather than asserting a certain worldview and beating us readers over the head with abstract arguments detached from real-world concerns. And the book presents a wealth of useful information. One real eye-opener for me was the data showing that climate-related deaths have plummeted by something like 99% over the past 100 years. So even if it is true that global industrialization is causing more extreme weather, our ability to protect ourselves from extreme weather makes this inconsequential thanks to things such as energy-consuming climate-controlled homes, fossil-fuel powered factories that can mass produce supplies, fossil-fuel powered vehicles that can rush them anywhere, and fossil-fuel powered hospitals that can help the victims. Furthermore, this book also outlines really useful thinking principles for how to approach such issues about fossil fuels. Specifically we should: 1. Evaluate fossil fuels by judging whether they ultimate promote human life, or threaten it. 2. Agree to look at the big picture and consider all of the benefits and all of the problems, rather than just cherry pick certain stories or consequences. 3. Recognize that experts should be used as advisers who can offer valuable insight and information in areas outside of our expertise, rather than authorities who are never to be questioned. These principles are useful guidelines for wading through complex issues well beyond fossil fuels and climate change. I can easily see these principles offering a good starting points for weighing in on controversies surrounding Walmart, large agribusinesses, the modern financial industry, globalization, or widespread commercialization. Overall, this is an outstanding book that taught me a number of things that I didn’t know, convinced me on a few things that I wasn’t already convinced on, and helped me better organize and clarify my thinking on many things that I already believed.

Really enjoyed this book for its clear thinking and excellent arguments. We are bombarded daily with "green propaganda" and it is refreshing to finally have a clear, thoughtful, comprehensive, and moral case for why to use fossil fuels be presented in such a logical and understandable format. The authors insights into the fallacies of the "green" arguments and his emphasis on the incredibly positive contributions that energy has on improving human life were most appreciated. The obvious benefits of using fossil fuels are so enormous and the proven technologies to manage the negatives clearly make the case for the increased use of fossil fuels for the betterment of the human race.

This is a good book, full of valuable information. I saw an interview of the author, Alex Epstein online and bought the book on the strength of that interview. Epstein is an articulate man, well versed in his subject, with a lucid reason why fossil fuels are good for humans. He points out the energy available in fossil fuels is indispensable to the flourishing of mankind. Curtailing the use of that energy without some other source being available will bring death to billions of people. The dire consequences predicted for using fossil fuels have not materialized. The only dire consequences from fossil fuel usage has been in the computer models, and the models have not been accurate. The slight warming of the past century, about a half degree, has been a help, not a hinderance to making this planet livable. Carbon dioxide is a plant fertilizer. Other than hydro and atomic sources, there are no realistic alternatives to fossil fuels. So-called "renewable" sources of energy, wind and solar, are intermittent, therefore not reliable, and the rare earths needed for building wind turbines and solar panels are extremely polluting. Hydro and atomic sources of energy face opposition from environmental groups concerned with safety or esthetic problems.

This is a great book!! It describes everything that fossil fuels have given to the world. Fossil fuels provide us with our wonderful life—our homes, our food, our clothing, our medicines and hospitals, all of our transportationn, computers, cell phoness, etc. You name it and fossil energy is behind it—there is absolutely nothing else on this earth, other than fossil energy, that makes our lives comfortable and safe. Epstein describes the very real problems in the use of, so-called, ‘renewables.’ He explains why converting to them means the death of millions of people around the world.

Too often the public is bombarded by news stories, films and celebrities/politicians stating how fossil fuel energy is an extreme danger to our existence. The mainstream media does not even attempt to show a perspective that might be different from this viewpoint. Alex Epstein has written an intelligent and well referenced book pointing out the growth of industrialized societies due mainly through fossil fuel energy. He raises many excellent points regarding the benefits of fossil fuels. In particular, I was impacted by the idea that United States energy policies against fossil fuels have had an extremely negative effect on economically poor nations. For these people, it is a matter of life or death. The real crime is the elite establishment forcing their agendas on the poor people of the world - people whose lives could be vastly improved by fossil fuel energy. Whether you are for or against decreasing fossil fuel usage, this book is well worth your time to read and become more informed about these issues. Thanks Alex.

Refreshing perspective about one of the most important elements that's made our modern world great. I've heard of many of the difficulties with 'renewables' mostly dealing with intermittency and cost ($ & environment) but rarely do you hear about the scalability when talking about 8 billion people. His main premise is that fossil fuels being cheap, plentiful, and reliable have done the best work for human flourishing and as technology advances the risks are negated. Hardly ever do you hear about a reward/risk comparison when talking about oil, you only hear necessary evils or just end of the world predictions due to climate changes. The issue is the climate IS dangerous but having means ands the ability we can make it as safe as possible for humans.

Epstein makes a good case for the value of fossil fuels, especially in developing countries. And points out, that without them, most Western nations would go backwards into Third World status themselves. The book's a bit repetitive, but worth reading.

I enjoyed the philosophical argument that fossil fuel is even good for the planet. It seems nowadays we have to be careful of blaspheming against the holy narrative of man made climate change, as if it is criticism exempt.

I had never thought of the energy debate as one about morals. A basic fight between those who want to better peoples lives versus those who want to better what they believe to be nature.

Almost to the end in just a few days. Direct, well-referenced and with historical context on many facets of the topic. Developing countries have as much right to inexpensive energy as today's first-world nations did during their development. The author describes in detail, both historically and currently, how those seeking grants and influence thereby sell their credibility as hundreds of their dire predictions have come to nothing. Predictions of the 70s have us all wearing gas masks in the cities by now and also predicted that Britain would be a near-desert wasteland by 2020. The world was to be soon to run out of oil. So many of these negative predictions failed to foresee the ability to "scrub" emissions, failed to foresee advances in oil and gas extraction, and basically underestimated the scientists and engineers who have accomplished so much in the face of such negativity. Dusting off those dire predictions and holding them up to the light gives us some inkling of how likely the new set of dire predictions may play out. New to me was a detailed examination of research indicating accelerated growth in many plants with the slight increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide. One of the best revelations was a side-by-side comparison of global temperature change of the 102 computer models that FAIL epically to predict anything. Only two of the 102 models come anywhere close and even those two overshot reality by a sizeable margin. Truth is: it's complicated far beyond the ability to predict.

So great to see a young Ayn Rand disciple applying the technique of reducing two sides of a debate to their underlying moral premises in this crucial area of energy philosophy. Armed with the moral high ground and empirical data to back up his case, Alex Epstein has earned his place as one of the world leaders in providing clarity and hope to those of us who worry about the destructive potential of the environmental movement.

Finally someone has presented a lucid, well reasoned alternative viewpoint to the "Oil is Evil" position that is so broadly reported by the media. Thank you Mr Epstein!

WOW! This is a game-changer book. Alex has taken what is a very, and almost universally held, negative view of the continued use of fossil fuels and has turned that view into a incredibly positive and moral argument, not only for the continued use of fossil fuels but for an expanding use of fossill fuels. The arguments and explanations are impeccably logical, consistent and fact-based. The most startling conclusion from the book is that fossil fuel use is really the only way to improve our environment including the human environment. In addition the book is very well written and one which will be hard for anyone to put down.

simple, out of the box thinking. counterintuitive and wonderfully politically incorrect. fresh thinking is needed on the topic of global warming and climate change and this is perfect. attempts to describe the views of those who accept the alarmist approach falls somewhat short. also, could have been condensed some. all in all, an excellent book

This is a very important book for our time. Alex Epstein has covered all the necessary points. His research is impeccable and should be reviewed by all those who are against the use of fossil fuels. As he has written; human life is the standard of value - period. It would be remiss of us to put, i.e. microscopic snails above human life. Technology and fossil fuels will see us forward. All Hail Alex Epstein.

Excellent book. Data-oriented, totally objective and clear way of communicating the main principles that are behind the environmental movement and why it is not just wrong but evil

Although I do not agree with everything Epstein writes and stands for, I really like his approach to thinking about the questions. Where he is different from so many others is to ground his case in the main value of human flourishing. Within that framework, he does a good job of making the case. I see two main potential pitfalls: he has a tremendous, perhaps blind, faith in free market principles and there may be unforeseen consequences that he is not considering in the framework. Epstein basically takes an objectivist perspective, but that perspective fails when market failures exist. And there are many in our society. The unforeseen consequences have to do with the many unknowns in ecology and complex systems like life on earth and the interlocking dependencies. While I tend to agree that with these slow motion crises, we have always found a way to fix them, there is risk. Nonetheless, given his frame, his views are a breath of fresh air compared to the technobabble that spews from climate scientists who try to solve societal economic issues with climate science (wrong tool for the job).

Epstein rattles the environmental groupthink of our time by simply laying out the comprehensive facts about the exponential benefits of fossil fuels. His ideas and assemblage of facts is a must-read.

Everybody should read this book, especially those who are most put off by its title. It says some things that have needed saying for a long time, and says them well. It does, though, have some weaknesses. Strong points: 1. Fossil fuels do much for us that we've come to take for granted. The book is full of powerful examples to reawaken our appreciation. 2. Alternative sources of energy will remain inadequate. Others have said so; the author repeats the case succinctly. 3. People who produce and improve fossil fuels should be proud of it. Government and non-profits are not the only public services in town. 4. What counts as a resource depends on what we know how to do. Raw materials become resources only when we figure out a use for them. Figuring new uses and better ways to accomplish the old ones is one of our most precious industries. 5. The standard by which we judge should be human welfare. This may include a human liking for greenery and wildlife, but it does not include the vital interests of mosquitoes. Second Thoughts: 1. Finitude is real, over a long enough time span. Even in the short term, anyone who grew up in a mining town can tell you that boom times give way to slag heaps. 2. Timing is critical. If there's a tipping point, we want to know how soon. 3. Potential improvements of fossil fuel usage are just as speculative as those of alternative energy. Counting on the one is no high ground from which to dismiss enthusiasts of the other. Beyond: 1. Social systems are at risk as well as material and health well-being. Before fossil fuels did the heavy hauling, people beat it out of burros, whipped it out of horses, and goaded it out of oxen or elephants. And once those cruelties are a normal part of life, what's to inhibit slavery or patriarchy? 2. Solar power might yet compete with fossil fuels if beamed from solar power satellites. It would require drastic reductions in the cost of putting things in space, but its prospects are at least as good as anything that can be done with terrestrial-based solar power. 3. Physical adaptation of humans might enable us to live comfortably in a changed environment, and for that matter in space or on extraterrestrial bodies. But the research and development needed to achieve any such reprieve require the maintenance of a society currently based upon fossil fuels.

Fantastic book! A must read for anyone who is interested in current and future global energy use. There is a ton of technical information here, but Epstein’s communication skills make it easy for anyone to understand the data. I highly recommend the Moral Case for Fossil Fuels.

I have already talked two of my friends into buying this book. This book is a treasure, a gift to humanity, at least someone has his head screwed on right! The author demonstrates how to analyse and solve problems facing humanity. This is the most awesome book that I have read about how our civilization developed and prospers since Guns, Germs, and Steel: The Fates of Human Societies by by Jared M. Diamond. Most importantly, this book teaches you how to think, analyse, and stay away from preconceived notions about ANY subject, not just so called environmentalism. There is an incredibly informative video where the author explains his views in person: http://www.heritage.org/events/2014/11/moral-case-for-fossil-fuels I am on a second pass over this book now. At least to me, author's case looks airtight both factually and politically. I do not think that his opponents can find any holes. They will, however, try to find a way to smear his character or something. I paraphrased MIT Professor emeritus Richard Lindzen: Global-warming alarmists as a discredited cult whose members are becoming more hysterical as emerging evidence continues to contradict their beliefs. As with any cult, once the mythology of the cult begins falling apart, instead of saying, oh, we were wrong, they get more and more fanatical.

Really enjoyed this book for its clear thinking and excellent arguments. We are bombarded daily with "green propaganda" and it is refreshing to finally have a clear, thoughtful, comprehensive, and moral case for why to use fossil fuels be presented in such a logical and understandable format. The authors insights into the fallacies of the "green" arguments and his emphasis on the incredibly positive contributions that energy has on improving human life were most appreciated. The obvious benefits of using fossil fuels are so enormous and the proven technologies to manage the negatives clearly make the case for the increased use of fossil fuels for the betterment of the human race.

This is a good book, full of valuable information. I saw an interview of the author, Alex Epstein online and bought the book on the strength of that interview. Epstein is an articulate man, well versed in his subject, with a lucid reason why fossil fuels are good for humans. He points out the energy available in fossil fuels is indispensable to the flourishing of mankind. Curtailing the use of that energy without some other source being available will bring death to billions of people. The dire consequences predicted for using fossil fuels have not materialized. The only dire consequences from fossil fuel usage has been in the computer models, and the models have not been accurate. The slight warming of the past century, about a half degree, has been a help, not a hinderance to making this planet livable. Carbon dioxide is a plant fertilizer. Other than hydro and atomic sources, there are no realistic alternatives to fossil fuels. So-called "renewable" sources of energy, wind and solar, are intermittent, therefore not reliable, and the rare earths needed for building wind turbines and solar panels are extremely polluting. Hydro and atomic sources of energy face opposition from environmental groups concerned with safety or esthetic problems.

This is a great book!! It describes everything that fossil fuels have given to the world. Fossil fuels provide us with our wonderful life—our homes, our food, our clothing, our medicines and hospitals, all of our transportationn, computers, cell phoness, etc. You name it and fossil energy is behind it—there is absolutely nothing else on this earth, other than fossil energy, that makes our lives comfortable and safe. Epstein describes the very real problems in the use of, so-called, ‘renewables.’ He explains why converting to them means the death of millions of people around the world.

Too often the public is bombarded by news stories, films and celebrities/politicians stating how fossil fuel energy is an extreme danger to our existence. The mainstream media does not even attempt to show a perspective that might be different from this viewpoint. Alex Epstein has written an intelligent and well referenced book pointing out the growth of industrialized societies due mainly through fossil fuel energy. He raises many excellent points regarding the benefits of fossil fuels. In particular, I was impacted by the idea that United States energy policies against fossil fuels have had an extremely negative effect on economically poor nations. For these people, it is a matter of life or death. The real crime is the elite establishment forcing their agendas on the poor people of the world - people whose lives could be vastly improved by fossil fuel energy. Whether you are for or against decreasing fossil fuel usage, this book is well worth your time to read and become more informed about these issues. Thanks Alex.

Refreshing perspective about one of the most important elements that's made our modern world great. I've heard of many of the difficulties with 'renewables' mostly dealing with intermittency and cost ($ & environment) but rarely do you hear about the scalability when talking about 8 billion people. His main premise is that fossil fuels being cheap, plentiful, and reliable have done the best work for human flourishing and as technology advances the risks are negated. Hardly ever do you hear about a reward/risk comparison when talking about oil, you only hear necessary evils or just end of the world predictions due to climate changes. The issue is the climate IS dangerous but having means ands the ability we can make it as safe as possible for humans.

Epstein makes a good case for the value of fossil fuels, especially in developing countries. And points out, that without them, most Western nations would go backwards into Third World status themselves. The book's a bit repetitive, but worth reading.

I enjoyed the philosophical argument that fossil fuel is even good for the planet. It seems nowadays we have to be careful of blaspheming against the holy narrative of man made climate change, as if it is criticism exempt.

I had never thought of the energy debate as one about morals. A basic fight between those who want to better peoples lives versus those who want to better what they believe to be nature.

Almost to the end in just a few days. Direct, well-referenced and with historical context on many facets of the topic. Developing countries have as much right to inexpensive energy as today's first-world nations did during their development. The author describes in detail, both historically and currently, how those seeking grants and influence thereby sell their credibility as hundreds of their dire predictions have come to nothing. Predictions of the 70s have us all wearing gas masks in the cities by now and also predicted that Britain would be a near-desert wasteland by 2020. The world was to be soon to run out of oil. So many of these negative predictions failed to foresee the ability to "scrub" emissions, failed to foresee advances in oil and gas extraction, and basically underestimated the scientists and engineers who have accomplished so much in the face of such negativity. Dusting off those dire predictions and holding them up to the light gives us some inkling of how likely the new set of dire predictions may play out. New to me was a detailed examination of research indicating accelerated growth in many plants with the slight increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide. One of the best revelations was a side-by-side comparison of global temperature change of the 102 computer models that FAIL epically to predict anything. Only two of the 102 models come anywhere close and even those two overshot reality by a sizeable margin. Truth is: it's complicated far beyond the ability to predict.

So great to see a young Ayn Rand disciple applying the technique of reducing two sides of a debate to their underlying moral premises in this crucial area of energy philosophy. Armed with the moral high ground and empirical data to back up his case, Alex Epstein has earned his place as one of the world leaders in providing clarity and hope to those of us who worry about the destructive potential of the environmental movement.

Alex makes the point - fossil fuels are what make existence easy. Reliable transportation, healthcare availability, food... all made possible by reliable fuels. You may stand for solar and wind but strong cases are made why these fuels have not taken over fossil fuel roles.

Outstanding read and explains how everyone who value human life and the quality of human life should read this book!

I do not know Alex Epstein. I also do not work for the fossil fuel industry, though after reading this book, and learning about how beneficial fossil fuels are to human existence, I wish I did. And this is one of the most important aspects of the book: it propounds a standard by which to evaluate humans' interaction with the environment. The standard Epstein argues for is the standard of human life: what will make human life flourish. He makes a great case for free markets in energy that allow the best and cheapest ways to make abundant and reliable energy available for all. He also encourages a very responsible intellectual approach to determining his standard for evaluating our interaction with the environment. And that is that you must always examine both the benefits and the detriments of our activities on human life in order to draw your conclusion. Epstein provides a great example of how a lack of reliable energy kills human beings. He does this with first hand reports about a hospital in Gambia where premature babies die because there is not enough cheap, reliable energy to keep the machines running that would keep these babies alive. As to what he says about global warming, here are actual quotes: "It has long been known that when CO2 is added to the atmosphere, the greenhouse effect leads to warming impact." (p. 21) Now only a MORON would conclude that he is a global warming denier. What Epstein does is then look at the evidence of the models that have predicted global warming. He reports that every single model using CO2 as a major driver of climate change is a failure (p. 103). Now, if at least one of the 102 models were correct, then at least the hippies could say "our predictions were almost 1% correct" and at least you would have something to stand on. But it is not even 1%. It is 0%. He then goes on to explain that adding CO2 to the atmosphere has a logarithmic effect. This means that although CO2 can raise the temperature through the Greenhouse Effect, additional CO2 will not heat things up as much as the first amounts of CO2. (pp. 97-98). It could be, he speculates, that we have already seen the most extreme warming from adding CO2 to the atmosphere. Epstein then goes on to explain a common misunderstanding between three separate issues: the Greenhouse Effect, dramatic global warming, and catastrophic global warming. These three ideas are conflated by the man-hating hippies such that everything is seen as catastrophic global warming and so that if people accept the Greenhouse Effect and dramatic global warming, but don't buy into catastrophic global warming, then they are called deniers. Epstein also has a great part in the book (p. 111) where he quotes the scientists whose papers have been used to claim that they are part of the 97% of climate scientists who allegedly agree that there is global warming and that human beings are the main cause. Here is a sample: "That is not an accurate representation of my paper" Craig Idso. "Nope . . . it is not an accurate representation" Nir Shaviv This is a great book with many more brilliant insights. I recommend it to everyone who wants to understand theee fundamental fact that allows humans to live enjoyable lives on earth, and I especially recommend it to hippies, who should read the book first before posting reviews.

This book was very inspiring. Mankind has a wonderful future if only we can stay focused on HUMAN LIFE as our standard of value and get out of the way of progress!! I love how the book teaches how to diffuse the hysterical arguments surrounding global warming by changing the debate. It exposes the real thing we should be talking about: how can we safely produce the most energy for the benefit of mankind. We need to include all the pros and cons for every current source of energy, and determine which ones are the best overall, for you, for me, for your kids and my kids, for all of humanity. And in fact, the answer to that question is one that "environmentalists" should be all for.

I believe this is a book that should be widely read. Epstein is interesting, factual, fair, and he has definitely done his homework. A good read, and we really need this book and this information today - before it is too late!

A very important point of view in the analysis of the global warming discussion. Before you dismiss either extreme point of view, you need to examine the intelligent presentations such as this, and incorporate the indisputable points in your decision making on this issue. If you don't, you lack the intellect to form a reasonable opinion anyway and need to stick to your facebook postings. While I don't necessary agree with all of Mr. Epstein's conclusions, many of his points are completely valid.

Great shift into the environmental problems. Puts things into perspective. Great read. Paints the clear and big picture of human relation to its environment, and governments role.

As a professional engineer and 40-yr veteran of the energy efficiency marketplace I appreciate the clarity and facts, not spin or hype, that Epstein brings to "green." A must read for anyone in the industry or public policy who has an open mind, which should be everyone.

At the risk of sounding hyperbolic, if you only read one non-fiction book in the next five years, this should be the one. Epstein, an outsider with a background in philosophy, reframes the energy debate in terms of standards of value: the "non-impact" group (traditionally called environmentalists) vs. the group whose highest value is human life, and thus improving human life for all 7+ billion of us on the planet. So, pick your side. He backs his arguments with a wealth of detailed facts, sound logic, and compassion for people. Recommended for everyone.

This is an important book to read. With all the hysteria about burning fossil fuels and that the world is going to end as a result it is nice to read some information that explains the overwhelming benefits of fossil fuels and Alex’s evidence is reassuring. Al Gore you need this book.

Really enjoyed this book for its clear thinking and excellent arguments. We are bombarded daily with "green propaganda" and it is refreshing to finally have a clear, thoughtful, comprehensive, and moral case for why to use fossil fuels be presented in such a logical and understandable format. The authors insights into the fallacies of the "green" arguments and his emphasis on the incredibly positive contributions that energy has on improving human life were most appreciated. The obvious benefits of using fossil fuels are so enormous and the proven technologies to manage the negatives clearly make the case for the increased use of fossil fuels for the betterment of the human race.

This is a good book, full of valuable information. I saw an interview of the author, Alex Epstein online and bought the book on the strength of that interview. Epstein is an articulate man, well versed in his subject, with a lucid reason why fossil fuels are good for humans. He points out the energy available in fossil fuels is indispensable to the flourishing of mankind. Curtailing the use of that energy without some other source being available will bring death to billions of people. The dire consequences predicted for using fossil fuels have not materialized. The only dire consequences from fossil fuel usage has been in the computer models, and the models have not been accurate. The slight warming of the past century, about a half degree, has been a help, not a hinderance to making this planet livable. Carbon dioxide is a plant fertilizer. Other than hydro and atomic sources, there are no realistic alternatives to fossil fuels. So-called "renewable" sources of energy, wind and solar, are intermittent, therefore not reliable, and the rare earths needed for building wind turbines and solar panels are extremely polluting. Hydro and atomic sources of energy face opposition from environmental groups concerned with safety or esthetic problems.

This is a great book!! It describes everything that fossil fuels have given to the world. Fossil fuels provide us with our wonderful life—our homes, our food, our clothing, our medicines and hospitals, all of our transportationn, computers, cell phoness, etc. You name it and fossil energy is behind it—there is absolutely nothing else on this earth, other than fossil energy, that makes our lives comfortable and safe. Epstein describes the very real problems in the use of, so-called, ‘renewables.’ He explains why converting to them means the death of millions of people around the world.

Too often the public is bombarded by news stories, films and celebrities/politicians stating how fossil fuel energy is an extreme danger to our existence. The mainstream media does not even attempt to show a perspective that might be different from this viewpoint. Alex Epstein has written an intelligent and well referenced book pointing out the growth of industrialized societies due mainly through fossil fuel energy. He raises many excellent points regarding the benefits of fossil fuels. In particular, I was impacted by the idea that United States energy policies against fossil fuels have had an extremely negative effect on economically poor nations. For these people, it is a matter of life or death. The real crime is the elite establishment forcing their agendas on the poor people of the world - people whose lives could be vastly improved by fossil fuel energy. Whether you are for or against decreasing fossil fuel usage, this book is well worth your time to read and become more informed about these issues. Thanks Alex.

Refreshing perspective about one of the most important elements that's made our modern world great. I've heard of many of the difficulties with 'renewables' mostly dealing with intermittency and cost ($ & environment) but rarely do you hear about the scalability when talking about 8 billion people. His main premise is that fossil fuels being cheap, plentiful, and reliable have done the best work for human flourishing and as technology advances the risks are negated. Hardly ever do you hear about a reward/risk comparison when talking about oil, you only hear necessary evils or just end of the world predictions due to climate changes. The issue is the climate IS dangerous but having means ands the ability we can make it as safe as possible for humans.

Epstein makes a good case for the value of fossil fuels, especially in developing countries. And points out, that without them, most Western nations would go backwards into Third World status themselves. The book's a bit repetitive, but worth reading.

I enjoyed the philosophical argument that fossil fuel is even good for the planet. It seems nowadays we have to be careful of blaspheming against the holy narrative of man made climate change, as if it is criticism exempt.

I had never thought of the energy debate as one about morals. A basic fight between those who want to better peoples lives versus those who want to better what they believe to be nature.

Almost to the end in just a few days. Direct, well-referenced and with historical context on many facets of the topic. Developing countries have as much right to inexpensive energy as today's first-world nations did during their development. The author describes in detail, both historically and currently, how those seeking grants and influence thereby sell their credibility as hundreds of their dire predictions have come to nothing. Predictions of the 70s have us all wearing gas masks in the cities by now and also predicted that Britain would be a near-desert wasteland by 2020. The world was to be soon to run out of oil. So many of these negative predictions failed to foresee the ability to "scrub" emissions, failed to foresee advances in oil and gas extraction, and basically underestimated the scientists and engineers who have accomplished so much in the face of such negativity. Dusting off those dire predictions and holding them up to the light gives us some inkling of how likely the new set of dire predictions may play out. New to me was a detailed examination of research indicating accelerated growth in many plants with the slight increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide. One of the best revelations was a side-by-side comparison of global temperature change of the 102 computer models that FAIL epically to predict anything. Only two of the 102 models come anywhere close and even those two overshot reality by a sizeable margin. Truth is: it's complicated far beyond the ability to predict.

So great to see a young Ayn Rand disciple applying the technique of reducing two sides of a debate to their underlying moral premises in this crucial area of energy philosophy. Armed with the moral high ground and empirical data to back up his case, Alex Epstein has earned his place as one of the world leaders in providing clarity and hope to those of us who worry about the destructive potential of the environmental movement.

No other book disputing climate change alarmism has been written so well. Bravo, Mr. Epstein!

Wonderful, it is a clear explanation.

This book has challenged my fundamental beliefs more deeply than any other book I've ever read.

I recently read this informative book that offers an alternative perspective about the use of fossil fuels --the extent of the problem; its urgency; the standard to be used to evaluate the way forward; and the impact that fossil fuels has on humans and on the planet. This common sense view provides alternatives to address the coming “catastrophe” expressed by leaders today. Epstein starts with an overview of where fossil fuels fit into the climate change discussion: are we having climate change or climate catastrophe? He continues with an analysis of the scientific basis of current views by challenging how the underlying science has been developed and applied. For Example, computer models have predicted a CO2 catastrophe in the making. He offers a view that the models (over 100 have been developed and backtested to validate their efficacy) built by well intended “experts” have not accurately predicted reality over the past 30 years. CO2 has in fact risen but not to the predicted values. He also reviews the reality of predictions made by the Club for Growth 30 years ago and gives examples of the errors in the forecasts made at that time -- noting that the same individuals who made those predictions are involved today. His concerns are in the methods (scientific as well as the lack of use of experts in other fields) and currently promoted policies. By reviewing the benefits of using fossil fuels, versus current recommendations to curtail their use, he challenges recommendations based on the so called “settled science”, e.g. What does 97% agreement really mean (He explains how “agreement” was evaluated)? The documented history and benefits to mankind of using fossil fuels is well thought out. The book does not emphasize climate change but, on the other hand focuses on CO2 and on the need to have a balanced realistic discussion on how to go forward. He admits to not having all the answers but argues that there needs to be an objective dialog rather than a politically driven agenda. The book looks at the issues from a totally different perspective than has been presented before; using different facts, and is well structured as well as engaging. I recommend previewing the chapter on Amazon. The first chapter is a good overview of the content after which he systematically covers how to view the issue at hand using new datasets.

I have never looked at fossil fuels this way! The book was very informative, compelling, with plenty of facts. There are lots of statistics, charts and graphs as well.

The author does make the moral case for fossil fuel energy. Although he is presenting that case with a lot of facts and it is well footnoted, the book is not dry and tedious. To sum up, if your values center on the health and happiness of the human race as a whole then fossil fuels should be in our lives for many years to come.

Epstein does an excellent job of arguing the moral case for energy use and development. Another book I wish the political class would pick up.

Powerful, compelling, and logical, Alex clearly explains why humankind is Morally better for using Fossil Fuels - emphasis on 'moral'. This book is at the very top of my recommended list. I give this book the highest rating. This is truly a must read!

Well worth it. Very valuable information and will change one's views Fossil fuels.

An excellent book. Brings to light proper evaluation and discussion of topics.

Really enjoyed this book for its clear thinking and excellent arguments. We are bombarded daily with "green propaganda" and it is refreshing to finally have a clear, thoughtful, comprehensive, and moral case for why to use fossil fuels be presented in such a logical and understandable format. The authors insights into the fallacies of the "green" arguments and his emphasis on the incredibly positive contributions that energy has on improving human life were most appreciated. The obvious benefits of using fossil fuels are so enormous and the proven technologies to manage the negatives clearly make the case for the increased use of fossil fuels for the betterment of the human race.

This is a good book, full of valuable information. I saw an interview of the author, Alex Epstein online and bought the book on the strength of that interview. Epstein is an articulate man, well versed in his subject, with a lucid reason why fossil fuels are good for humans. He points out the energy available in fossil fuels is indispensable to the flourishing of mankind. Curtailing the use of that energy without some other source being available will bring death to billions of people. The dire consequences predicted for using fossil fuels have not materialized. The only dire consequences from fossil fuel usage has been in the computer models, and the models have not been accurate. The slight warming of the past century, about a half degree, has been a help, not a hinderance to making this planet livable. Carbon dioxide is a plant fertilizer. Other than hydro and atomic sources, there are no realistic alternatives to fossil fuels. So-called "renewable" sources of energy, wind and solar, are intermittent, therefore not reliable, and the rare earths needed for building wind turbines and solar panels are extremely polluting. Hydro and atomic sources of energy face opposition from environmental groups concerned with safety or esthetic problems.

This is a great book!! It describes everything that fossil fuels have given to the world. Fossil fuels provide us with our wonderful life—our homes, our food, our clothing, our medicines and hospitals, all of our transportationn, computers, cell phoness, etc. You name it and fossil energy is behind it—there is absolutely nothing else on this earth, other than fossil energy, that makes our lives comfortable and safe. Epstein describes the very real problems in the use of, so-called, ‘renewables.’ He explains why converting to them means the death of millions of people around the world.

Too often the public is bombarded by news stories, films and celebrities/politicians stating how fossil fuel energy is an extreme danger to our existence. The mainstream media does not even attempt to show a perspective that might be different from this viewpoint. Alex Epstein has written an intelligent and well referenced book pointing out the growth of industrialized societies due mainly through fossil fuel energy. He raises many excellent points regarding the benefits of fossil fuels. In particular, I was impacted by the idea that United States energy policies against fossil fuels have had an extremely negative effect on economically poor nations. For these people, it is a matter of life or death. The real crime is the elite establishment forcing their agendas on the poor people of the world - people whose lives could be vastly improved by fossil fuel energy. Whether you are for or against decreasing fossil fuel usage, this book is well worth your time to read and become more informed about these issues. Thanks Alex.

Refreshing perspective about one of the most important elements that's made our modern world great. I've heard of many of the difficulties with 'renewables' mostly dealing with intermittency and cost ($ & environment) but rarely do you hear about the scalability when talking about 8 billion people. His main premise is that fossil fuels being cheap, plentiful, and reliable have done the best work for human flourishing and as technology advances the risks are negated. Hardly ever do you hear about a reward/risk comparison when talking about oil, you only hear necessary evils or just end of the world predictions due to climate changes. The issue is the climate IS dangerous but having means ands the ability we can make it as safe as possible for humans.

Epstein makes a good case for the value of fossil fuels, especially in developing countries. And points out, that without them, most Western nations would go backwards into Third World status themselves. The book's a bit repetitive, but worth reading.

I enjoyed the philosophical argument that fossil fuel is even good for the planet. It seems nowadays we have to be careful of blaspheming against the holy narrative of man made climate change, as if it is criticism exempt.

I had never thought of the energy debate as one about morals. A basic fight between those who want to better peoples lives versus those who want to better what they believe to be nature.

Almost to the end in just a few days. Direct, well-referenced and with historical context on many facets of the topic. Developing countries have as much right to inexpensive energy as today's first-world nations did during their development. The author describes in detail, both historically and currently, how those seeking grants and influence thereby sell their credibility as hundreds of their dire predictions have come to nothing. Predictions of the 70s have us all wearing gas masks in the cities by now and also predicted that Britain would be a near-desert wasteland by 2020. The world was to be soon to run out of oil. So many of these negative predictions failed to foresee the ability to "scrub" emissions, failed to foresee advances in oil and gas extraction, and basically underestimated the scientists and engineers who have accomplished so much in the face of such negativity. Dusting off those dire predictions and holding them up to the light gives us some inkling of how likely the new set of dire predictions may play out. New to me was a detailed examination of research indicating accelerated growth in many plants with the slight increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide. One of the best revelations was a side-by-side comparison of global temperature change of the 102 computer models that FAIL epically to predict anything. Only two of the 102 models come anywhere close and even those two overshot reality by a sizeable margin. Truth is: it's complicated far beyond the ability to predict.

So great to see a young Ayn Rand disciple applying the technique of reducing two sides of a debate to their underlying moral premises in this crucial area of energy philosophy. Armed with the moral high ground and empirical data to back up his case, Alex Epstein has earned his place as one of the world leaders in providing clarity and hope to those of us who worry about the destructive potential of the environmental movement.

love this book I am an environmental engineer. I give this book to clients and they love it. Great read!

Excellent presentation of the many facets of modern society that currently depend on fossil fuel from agricultural productivity to polymers which replace many natural materials at lower cost and higher performance. The renewables proposed by the anti fossil fuel proponents, even if they were prac6ical and economical, do not address any of these other applications. .

This book tells the truth about fossil fuels. Without them, we'd be living in a primitive culture, with little ability to grow our food and keep ourselves healthy. With all the talk of "global warming" or "climate change" the "evils" of fossil fuels are broadcast daily. But modern society and having plenty of food and other amenities would not be possible without these vital fuel sources. Environmentally, aside from all the noise from those who'd have us living in caves, fossil fuels can be made cleaner and pollution can be controlled. (Switching from coal to natural gas reduces carbon emissions by 58%!) So plentiful fossil fuels along with the affluent society that it creates makes it possible for us (as a society) to afford to clean up the pollution that accompanies civilization. Well worth reading!

It is very clearly written. Arguments are taken from the real physical world. I am climate skeptic so I agree with him. I think a good book for those sided with the global warming, at least to know other arguments than world temperature. The question is even if we are sure of global warming, is it worth to trash all fossil fuels? Is the price affordable?

Great Book!! Everyone should read!! Great information in this book!!

Very interesting and fun to read. I learned a lot about how different energy sources compare. Presents the case very clearly - well written.

Regardless of your position on climate this book will surprise you. I agree with Ari Armstrong's recent assessment that MCFF is "an impressive and urgently needed work." My take on Ari's assessment is that it's impressive and needed because it challenges conventional thinking and actually brings into focus science based not upon preconceptions, government funding, and so-called consensus thinking, but rather honest scientific inquiry into natural phenomena - both man-made and naturally occurring. Well done, and a bargain at twice the price!

Great book!

Must read

A strong, well written argument/answer to the "clean energy" debate.

Really enjoyed this book for its clear thinking and excellent arguments. We are bombarded daily with "green propaganda" and it is refreshing to finally have a clear, thoughtful, comprehensive, and moral case for why to use fossil fuels be presented in such a logical and understandable format. The authors insights into the fallacies of the "green" arguments and his emphasis on the incredibly positive contributions that energy has on improving human life were most appreciated. The obvious benefits of using fossil fuels are so enormous and the proven technologies to manage the negatives clearly make the case for the increased use of fossil fuels for the betterment of the human race.

This is a good book, full of valuable information. I saw an interview of the author, Alex Epstein online and bought the book on the strength of that interview. Epstein is an articulate man, well versed in his subject, with a lucid reason why fossil fuels are good for humans. He points out the energy available in fossil fuels is indispensable to the flourishing of mankind. Curtailing the use of that energy without some other source being available will bring death to billions of people. The dire consequences predicted for using fossil fuels have not materialized. The only dire consequences from fossil fuel usage has been in the computer models, and the models have not been accurate. The slight warming of the past century, about a half degree, has been a help, not a hinderance to making this planet livable. Carbon dioxide is a plant fertilizer. Other than hydro and atomic sources, there are no realistic alternatives to fossil fuels. So-called "renewable" sources of energy, wind and solar, are intermittent, therefore not reliable, and the rare earths needed for building wind turbines and solar panels are extremely polluting. Hydro and atomic sources of energy face opposition from environmental groups concerned with safety or esthetic problems.

This is a great book!! It describes everything that fossil fuels have given to the world. Fossil fuels provide us with our wonderful life—our homes, our food, our clothing, our medicines and hospitals, all of our transportationn, computers, cell phoness, etc. You name it and fossil energy is behind it—there is absolutely nothing else on this earth, other than fossil energy, that makes our lives comfortable and safe. Epstein describes the very real problems in the use of, so-called, ‘renewables.’ He explains why converting to them means the death of millions of people around the world.

Too often the public is bombarded by news stories, films and celebrities/politicians stating how fossil fuel energy is an extreme danger to our existence. The mainstream media does not even attempt to show a perspective that might be different from this viewpoint. Alex Epstein has written an intelligent and well referenced book pointing out the growth of industrialized societies due mainly through fossil fuel energy. He raises many excellent points regarding the benefits of fossil fuels. In particular, I was impacted by the idea that United States energy policies against fossil fuels have had an extremely negative effect on economically poor nations. For these people, it is a matter of life or death. The real crime is the elite establishment forcing their agendas on the poor people of the world - people whose lives could be vastly improved by fossil fuel energy. Whether you are for or against decreasing fossil fuel usage, this book is well worth your time to read and become more informed about these issues. Thanks Alex.

Refreshing perspective about one of the most important elements that's made our modern world great. I've heard of many of the difficulties with 'renewables' mostly dealing with intermittency and cost ($ & environment) but rarely do you hear about the scalability when talking about 8 billion people. His main premise is that fossil fuels being cheap, plentiful, and reliable have done the best work for human flourishing and as technology advances the risks are negated. Hardly ever do you hear about a reward/risk comparison when talking about oil, you only hear necessary evils or just end of the world predictions due to climate changes. The issue is the climate IS dangerous but having means ands the ability we can make it as safe as possible for humans.

Epstein makes a good case for the value of fossil fuels, especially in developing countries. And points out, that without them, most Western nations would go backwards into Third World status themselves. The book's a bit repetitive, but worth reading.

I enjoyed the philosophical argument that fossil fuel is even good for the planet. It seems nowadays we have to be careful of blaspheming against the holy narrative of man made climate change, as if it is criticism exempt.

I had never thought of the energy debate as one about morals. A basic fight between those who want to better peoples lives versus those who want to better what they believe to be nature.

Almost to the end in just a few days. Direct, well-referenced and with historical context on many facets of the topic. Developing countries have as much right to inexpensive energy as today's first-world nations did during their development. The author describes in detail, both historically and currently, how those seeking grants and influence thereby sell their credibility as hundreds of their dire predictions have come to nothing. Predictions of the 70s have us all wearing gas masks in the cities by now and also predicted that Britain would be a near-desert wasteland by 2020. The world was to be soon to run out of oil. So many of these negative predictions failed to foresee the ability to "scrub" emissions, failed to foresee advances in oil and gas extraction, and basically underestimated the scientists and engineers who have accomplished so much in the face of such negativity. Dusting off those dire predictions and holding them up to the light gives us some inkling of how likely the new set of dire predictions may play out. New to me was a detailed examination of research indicating accelerated growth in many plants with the slight increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide. One of the best revelations was a side-by-side comparison of global temperature change of the 102 computer models that FAIL epically to predict anything. Only two of the 102 models come anywhere close and even those two overshot reality by a sizeable margin. Truth is: it's complicated far beyond the ability to predict.

So great to see a young Ayn Rand disciple applying the technique of reducing two sides of a debate to their underlying moral premises in this crucial area of energy philosophy. Armed with the moral high ground and empirical data to back up his case, Alex Epstein has earned his place as one of the world leaders in providing clarity and hope to those of us who worry about the destructive potential of the environmental movement.

This book taught me how to think about energy and ethics. Humans need to care about the environment, but only insomuch as it benefits human life and leads to human flourishing. The environment is not some god ("mother nature") we need to respect with a "non-impact" ideology. We need to respect human life first, always. People in third world countries desperately need the most reliable, cheap, and plentiful energy they can get, and that's fossil fuels. This book completely changed the way I think about fossil fuels, and energy in general, for the better. While fossil fuels are currently the most cheap, reliable, and plentiful form of energy, Epstein's driving point is the need for progressive energy: allowing the free market to decided which is the best energy to use at any given time. Nuclear energy, if not shut down by hard-core environmentalists, will soon be the most progressive energy and Epstein notes this. Epstein takes a philosophical approach and style, but backs-up his claims and arguments with data from credible sources (all charts, graphs, and data is cited). There's so much more I could write about that I learned from this book. I highly recommend it. Great job Alex!

everybody should read this, black oil is not dirty like wind power is not pure like Unicorn farts.

Very good book. Organized very well, convincing argument.

What a mind changer this book was for me!!

This book explains how the creation of our modern civilization was made possible by fossil fuels and will continue to be essential to our continued progress in the developed and developing world. It also explains the benefits (repeat - benefits) fossil fuels have brought to our environment snd our people.

If you value life on earth, you will love this book. If you don’t, you won’t. It really is that simple.

Great to read a common sense approach to energy consumption. It reflects a reality that is so obvious that it boggles the mind to understand how intelligent people can not see it. Of course it'll take energy to produce the technology to make the world a cleaner, more habitable place for everyone.

Excellent book in the face of so much climate change alarmism. Alex explains his ideas was common sense and cool reason. Well worth a read

This is a great book at articulating why fossil fuels are so helpful in improving our lives and without them we would be pretty helpless. It also raises good questions about green movements. Specifically if those movements will actually help more people than they will hurt.

Very thought provoking discussion. Allows you to read the news with a better perspective on the climate change debate.

Really enjoyed this book for its clear thinking and excellent arguments. We are bombarded daily with "green propaganda" and it is refreshing to finally have a clear, thoughtful, comprehensive, and moral case for why to use fossil fuels be presented in such a logical and understandable format. The authors insights into the fallacies of the "green" arguments and his emphasis on the incredibly positive contributions that energy has on improving human life were most appreciated. The obvious benefits of using fossil fuels are so enormous and the proven technologies to manage the negatives clearly make the case for the increased use of fossil fuels for the betterment of the human race.

This is a good book, full of valuable information. I saw an interview of the author, Alex Epstein online and bought the book on the strength of that interview. Epstein is an articulate man, well versed in his subject, with a lucid reason why fossil fuels are good for humans. He points out the energy available in fossil fuels is indispensable to the flourishing of mankind. Curtailing the use of that energy without some other source being available will bring death to billions of people. The dire consequences predicted for using fossil fuels have not materialized. The only dire consequences from fossil fuel usage has been in the computer models, and the models have not been accurate. The slight warming of the past century, about a half degree, has been a help, not a hinderance to making this planet livable. Carbon dioxide is a plant fertilizer. Other than hydro and atomic sources, there are no realistic alternatives to fossil fuels. So-called "renewable" sources of energy, wind and solar, are intermittent, therefore not reliable, and the rare earths needed for building wind turbines and solar panels are extremely polluting. Hydro and atomic sources of energy face opposition from environmental groups concerned with safety or esthetic problems.

This is a great book!! It describes everything that fossil fuels have given to the world. Fossil fuels provide us with our wonderful life—our homes, our food, our clothing, our medicines and hospitals, all of our transportationn, computers, cell phoness, etc. You name it and fossil energy is behind it—there is absolutely nothing else on this earth, other than fossil energy, that makes our lives comfortable and safe. Epstein describes the very real problems in the use of, so-called, ‘renewables.’ He explains why converting to them means the death of millions of people around the world.

Too often the public is bombarded by news stories, films and celebrities/politicians stating how fossil fuel energy is an extreme danger to our existence. The mainstream media does not even attempt to show a perspective that might be different from this viewpoint. Alex Epstein has written an intelligent and well referenced book pointing out the growth of industrialized societies due mainly through fossil fuel energy. He raises many excellent points regarding the benefits of fossil fuels. In particular, I was impacted by the idea that United States energy policies against fossil fuels have had an extremely negative effect on economically poor nations. For these people, it is a matter of life or death. The real crime is the elite establishment forcing their agendas on the poor people of the world - people whose lives could be vastly improved by fossil fuel energy. Whether you are for or against decreasing fossil fuel usage, this book is well worth your time to read and become more informed about these issues. Thanks Alex.

Refreshing perspective about one of the most important elements that's made our modern world great. I've heard of many of the difficulties with 'renewables' mostly dealing with intermittency and cost ($ & environment) but rarely do you hear about the scalability when talking about 8 billion people. His main premise is that fossil fuels being cheap, plentiful, and reliable have done the best work for human flourishing and as technology advances the risks are negated. Hardly ever do you hear about a reward/risk comparison when talking about oil, you only hear necessary evils or just end of the world predictions due to climate changes. The issue is the climate IS dangerous but having means ands the ability we can make it as safe as possible for humans.

Epstein makes a good case for the value of fossil fuels, especially in developing countries. And points out, that without them, most Western nations would go backwards into Third World status themselves. The book's a bit repetitive, but worth reading.

I enjoyed the philosophical argument that fossil fuel is even good for the planet. It seems nowadays we have to be careful of blaspheming against the holy narrative of man made climate change, as if it is criticism exempt.

I had never thought of the energy debate as one about morals. A basic fight between those who want to better peoples lives versus those who want to better what they believe to be nature.

Almost to the end in just a few days. Direct, well-referenced and with historical context on many facets of the topic. Developing countries have as much right to inexpensive energy as today's first-world nations did during their development. The author describes in detail, both historically and currently, how those seeking grants and influence thereby sell their credibility as hundreds of their dire predictions have come to nothing. Predictions of the 70s have us all wearing gas masks in the cities by now and also predicted that Britain would be a near-desert wasteland by 2020. The world was to be soon to run out of oil. So many of these negative predictions failed to foresee the ability to "scrub" emissions, failed to foresee advances in oil and gas extraction, and basically underestimated the scientists and engineers who have accomplished so much in the face of such negativity. Dusting off those dire predictions and holding them up to the light gives us some inkling of how likely the new set of dire predictions may play out. New to me was a detailed examination of research indicating accelerated growth in many plants with the slight increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide. One of the best revelations was a side-by-side comparison of global temperature change of the 102 computer models that FAIL epically to predict anything. Only two of the 102 models come anywhere close and even those two overshot reality by a sizeable margin. Truth is: it's complicated far beyond the ability to predict.

So great to see a young Ayn Rand disciple applying the technique of reducing two sides of a debate to their underlying moral premises in this crucial area of energy philosophy. Armed with the moral high ground and empirical data to back up his case, Alex Epstein has earned his place as one of the world leaders in providing clarity and hope to those of us who worry about the destructive potential of the environmental movement.

Makes good logical sense.

Even if you don't agree with the premise, the author articulates the issue very well and presents the key questions to ask concerning the climate change debate.

Excellent book. Proves without doubt that the popular climate change theory is entirely political with no scientific proof. Our country would be great again and would lead the world for generations to come if our energy policy allowed the free market to develop and use our fossil fuels.

Alex is an innovator and great forward thinker. This book really frames the conversation well. A must read if you’re interested in energy.

Didn't really care for it.

The author convincingly argues that we must not forget all the benefits we get from oil. Fossil fuel is our only really large scale and plentiful energy source, cheap enough to benefit even poor countries. Renewables can never do this. All parameters reflecting human quality of life have improved as we have used more fossil fuel. What shall be the objective of our actions? Should it be human quality of life as provided by fossil fuel or should it be untouched nature? These are contradictory and we must choose one or the other. The essence of this book is attention-grabbing discussions of the outcome of these important choices.

Our politicians should read this.

Such an excellent read.

Great book. Must buy.

Makes the case, splendidly.

Really enjoyed this book for its clear thinking and excellent arguments. We are bombarded daily with "green propaganda" and it is refreshing to finally have a clear, thoughtful, comprehensive, and moral case for why to use fossil fuels be presented in such a logical and understandable format. The authors insights into the fallacies of the "green" arguments and his emphasis on the incredibly positive contributions that energy has on improving human life were most appreciated. The obvious benefits of using fossil fuels are so enormous and the proven technologies to manage the negatives clearly make the case for the increased use of fossil fuels for the betterment of the human race.

This is a good book, full of valuable information. I saw an interview of the author, Alex Epstein online and bought the book on the strength of that interview. Epstein is an articulate man, well versed in his subject, with a lucid reason why fossil fuels are good for humans. He points out the energy available in fossil fuels is indispensable to the flourishing of mankind. Curtailing the use of that energy without some other source being available will bring death to billions of people. The dire consequences predicted for using fossil fuels have not materialized. The only dire consequences from fossil fuel usage has been in the computer models, and the models have not been accurate. The slight warming of the past century, about a half degree, has been a help, not a hinderance to making this planet livable. Carbon dioxide is a plant fertilizer. Other than hydro and atomic sources, there are no realistic alternatives to fossil fuels. So-called "renewable" sources of energy, wind and solar, are intermittent, therefore not reliable, and the rare earths needed for building wind turbines and solar panels are extremely polluting. Hydro and atomic sources of energy face opposition from environmental groups concerned with safety or esthetic problems.

This is a great book!! It describes everything that fossil fuels have given to the world. Fossil fuels provide us with our wonderful life—our homes, our food, our clothing, our medicines and hospitals, all of our transportationn, computers, cell phoness, etc. You name it and fossil energy is behind it—there is absolutely nothing else on this earth, other than fossil energy, that makes our lives comfortable and safe. Epstein describes the very real problems in the use of, so-called, ‘renewables.’ He explains why converting to them means the death of millions of people around the world.

Too often the public is bombarded by news stories, films and celebrities/politicians stating how fossil fuel energy is an extreme danger to our existence. The mainstream media does not even attempt to show a perspective that might be different from this viewpoint. Alex Epstein has written an intelligent and well referenced book pointing out the growth of industrialized societies due mainly through fossil fuel energy. He raises many excellent points regarding the benefits of fossil fuels. In particular, I was impacted by the idea that United States energy policies against fossil fuels have had an extremely negative effect on economically poor nations. For these people, it is a matter of life or death. The real crime is the elite establishment forcing their agendas on the poor people of the world - people whose lives could be vastly improved by fossil fuel energy. Whether you are for or against decreasing fossil fuel usage, this book is well worth your time to read and become more informed about these issues. Thanks Alex.

Refreshing perspective about one of the most important elements that's made our modern world great. I've heard of many of the difficulties with 'renewables' mostly dealing with intermittency and cost ($ & environment) but rarely do you hear about the scalability when talking about 8 billion people. His main premise is that fossil fuels being cheap, plentiful, and reliable have done the best work for human flourishing and as technology advances the risks are negated. Hardly ever do you hear about a reward/risk comparison when talking about oil, you only hear necessary evils or just end of the world predictions due to climate changes. The issue is the climate IS dangerous but having means ands the ability we can make it as safe as possible for humans.

Epstein makes a good case for the value of fossil fuels, especially in developing countries. And points out, that without them, most Western nations would go backwards into Third World status themselves. The book's a bit repetitive, but worth reading.

I enjoyed the philosophical argument that fossil fuel is even good for the planet. It seems nowadays we have to be careful of blaspheming against the holy narrative of man made climate change, as if it is criticism exempt.

I had never thought of the energy debate as one about morals. A basic fight between those who want to better peoples lives versus those who want to better what they believe to be nature.

Almost to the end in just a few days. Direct, well-referenced and with historical context on many facets of the topic. Developing countries have as much right to inexpensive energy as today's first-world nations did during their development. The author describes in detail, both historically and currently, how those seeking grants and influence thereby sell their credibility as hundreds of their dire predictions have come to nothing. Predictions of the 70s have us all wearing gas masks in the cities by now and also predicted that Britain would be a near-desert wasteland by 2020. The world was to be soon to run out of oil. So many of these negative predictions failed to foresee the ability to "scrub" emissions, failed to foresee advances in oil and gas extraction, and basically underestimated the scientists and engineers who have accomplished so much in the face of such negativity. Dusting off those dire predictions and holding them up to the light gives us some inkling of how likely the new set of dire predictions may play out. New to me was a detailed examination of research indicating accelerated growth in many plants with the slight increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide. One of the best revelations was a side-by-side comparison of global temperature change of the 102 computer models that FAIL epically to predict anything. Only two of the 102 models come anywhere close and even those two overshot reality by a sizeable margin. Truth is: it's complicated far beyond the ability to predict.

So great to see a young Ayn Rand disciple applying the technique of reducing two sides of a debate to their underlying moral premises in this crucial area of energy philosophy. Armed with the moral high ground and empirical data to back up his case, Alex Epstein has earned his place as one of the world leaders in providing clarity and hope to those of us who worry about the destructive potential of the environmental movement.

A good read.

Best written case for the extensive use of fossil fuels I have seen. I think he takes the right attitude toward "experts" which in his view is to tell us what they know and what they don't know honestly. I my opinion though he puts a little too much emphasis on failed climate predictions of 30 years ago and says they failed then and they will fail now. We know morenow. He is very right though in what cheap energy means, particularly to the poorest of us, and that is a part of the debate that seems to be lacking at this point.

Alex Epstein is out to change the world. He inspired me to study engineering with aim at Oil & Gas almost 3 years ago, and today I am thrilled to see his unique, compelling, scientifically precise, and morally righteous approach to the issue condensed into a single, best-selling book. There's a lot to be excited about as we continue to move into a globalized, digitized world. Sci-fi fans and humanitarians alike are watching (and participating) as some of the wildest dreams of the past century are coming true. Unheralded, however, is the central role fossil fuel energy plays in helping to make this happen. Epstein's book fixes this. Buy it, read it, study it, challenge it, and relearn what the triumphs of the past and path to the future really look like.

A plethora of information available no where else. Loads of notes and documentation for those wishing to do further research.

This will be one of my all-time favorites. So important and timely. The case is made so well.

If the scientist proclaiming man made climate change were doing their job instead of playing politics, this book wouldn't be necessary. This book makes a great case for not worrying about climate change based on based on real evidence.

This book presents a clear and concise fact-based argument for the benefits of burning fossil fuels on the length and quality life of individuals in most of the developed parts of the world. The author describes himself as a humanist and says: “The humanist believes that transforming nature is bad only if it fails to meet human needs; the non-humanist believes that transforming nature is intrinsically bad and that doing so will inevitably somehow cause catastrophe for us in the long run.” He further cites how technology continues to advance in mitigating much, if not most, of the negative aspects of burning fossil fuels - oil, natural gas and coal.

a must read.

It's a tough standard to be truly iconic, but Epstein clears the bar. Get this to see a perspective wholly absent from the public debate on fossil fuels. See how science and a human-centric value system might change your ideas. This is the book many don't want you to read. So read it.

excellent

Really enjoyed this book for its clear thinking and excellent arguments. We are bombarded daily with "green propaganda" and it is refreshing to finally have a clear, thoughtful, comprehensive, and moral case for why to use fossil fuels be presented in such a logical and understandable format. The authors insights into the fallacies of the "green" arguments and his emphasis on the incredibly positive contributions that energy has on improving human life were most appreciated. The obvious benefits of using fossil fuels are so enormous and the proven technologies to manage the negatives clearly make the case for the increased use of fossil fuels for the betterment of the human race.

This is a good book, full of valuable information. I saw an interview of the author, Alex Epstein online and bought the book on the strength of that interview. Epstein is an articulate man, well versed in his subject, with a lucid reason why fossil fuels are good for humans. He points out the energy available in fossil fuels is indispensable to the flourishing of mankind. Curtailing the use of that energy without some other source being available will bring death to billions of people. The dire consequences predicted for using fossil fuels have not materialized. The only dire consequences from fossil fuel usage has been in the computer models, and the models have not been accurate. The slight warming of the past century, about a half degree, has been a help, not a hinderance to making this planet livable. Carbon dioxide is a plant fertilizer. Other than hydro and atomic sources, there are no realistic alternatives to fossil fuels. So-called "renewable" sources of energy, wind and solar, are intermittent, therefore not reliable, and the rare earths needed for building wind turbines and solar panels are extremely polluting. Hydro and atomic sources of energy face opposition from environmental groups concerned with safety or esthetic problems.

This is a great book!! It describes everything that fossil fuels have given to the world. Fossil fuels provide us with our wonderful life—our homes, our food, our clothing, our medicines and hospitals, all of our transportationn, computers, cell phoness, etc. You name it and fossil energy is behind it—there is absolutely nothing else on this earth, other than fossil energy, that makes our lives comfortable and safe. Epstein describes the very real problems in the use of, so-called, ‘renewables.’ He explains why converting to them means the death of millions of people around the world.

Too often the public is bombarded by news stories, films and celebrities/politicians stating how fossil fuel energy is an extreme danger to our existence. The mainstream media does not even attempt to show a perspective that might be different from this viewpoint. Alex Epstein has written an intelligent and well referenced book pointing out the growth of industrialized societies due mainly through fossil fuel energy. He raises many excellent points regarding the benefits of fossil fuels. In particular, I was impacted by the idea that United States energy policies against fossil fuels have had an extremely negative effect on economically poor nations. For these people, it is a matter of life or death. The real crime is the elite establishment forcing their agendas on the poor people of the world - people whose lives could be vastly improved by fossil fuel energy. Whether you are for or against decreasing fossil fuel usage, this book is well worth your time to read and become more informed about these issues. Thanks Alex.

Refreshing perspective about one of the most important elements that's made our modern world great. I've heard of many of the difficulties with 'renewables' mostly dealing with intermittency and cost ($ & environment) but rarely do you hear about the scalability when talking about 8 billion people. His main premise is that fossil fuels being cheap, plentiful, and reliable have done the best work for human flourishing and as technology advances the risks are negated. Hardly ever do you hear about a reward/risk comparison when talking about oil, you only hear necessary evils or just end of the world predictions due to climate changes. The issue is the climate IS dangerous but having means ands the ability we can make it as safe as possible for humans.

Epstein makes a good case for the value of fossil fuels, especially in developing countries. And points out, that without them, most Western nations would go backwards into Third World status themselves. The book's a bit repetitive, but worth reading.

I enjoyed the philosophical argument that fossil fuel is even good for the planet. It seems nowadays we have to be careful of blaspheming against the holy narrative of man made climate change, as if it is criticism exempt.

I had never thought of the energy debate as one about morals. A basic fight between those who want to better peoples lives versus those who want to better what they believe to be nature.

Almost to the end in just a few days. Direct, well-referenced and with historical context on many facets of the topic. Developing countries have as much right to inexpensive energy as today's first-world nations did during their development. The author describes in detail, both historically and currently, how those seeking grants and influence thereby sell their credibility as hundreds of their dire predictions have come to nothing. Predictions of the 70s have us all wearing gas masks in the cities by now and also predicted that Britain would be a near-desert wasteland by 2020. The world was to be soon to run out of oil. So many of these negative predictions failed to foresee the ability to "scrub" emissions, failed to foresee advances in oil and gas extraction, and basically underestimated the scientists and engineers who have accomplished so much in the face of such negativity. Dusting off those dire predictions and holding them up to the light gives us some inkling of how likely the new set of dire predictions may play out. New to me was a detailed examination of research indicating accelerated growth in many plants with the slight increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide. One of the best revelations was a side-by-side comparison of global temperature change of the 102 computer models that FAIL epically to predict anything. Only two of the 102 models come anywhere close and even those two overshot reality by a sizeable margin. Truth is: it's complicated far beyond the ability to predict.

So great to see a young Ayn Rand disciple applying the technique of reducing two sides of a debate to their underlying moral premises in this crucial area of energy philosophy. Armed with the moral high ground and empirical data to back up his case, Alex Epstein has earned his place as one of the world leaders in providing clarity and hope to those of us who worry about the destructive potential of the environmental movement.

This book should be required reading for all parents, college professors, and most of all, politicians. It speaks the truth about how we all came to be prosperous humans in a world that is dangerous and a real threat to human existence. Only in our day, we have taken for granted the gifts from our ancestors who were once serfs or slaves because of the lack of affordable, reliable energy. Just a few generations ago, people lived less than half of our current life expectancy and had no reliable running water, electricity, transportation or cures for disease. Maybe the reason so many super-rich foundations founded by industrialists are part of the finance for the return to the dark ages (without affordable energy) is the old Malthusian 'the world is overpopulated'....Recently one of the original Greenpeace members said publicly that the world population must be reduced..... Fortunately, 3rd world countries have more sense; they know they need the above resources, and so far, no one has found a replacement for lifting people from starvation and disease. When European and American politicians and activists tell them they need to stop using coal, gas and oil, the people in those countries see it as a reason to hate the Western world. It appears that the West is choosing to descend into the ranks of 'once-great nations' and full of ruins and widespread poverty.... Time will tell if the West is driven into poverty by self-appointed, wealthy elites funding politicians who spout the nonsense....and a media funded by the same wealthy foundations....The USSR was no comparison to today's west in its propaganda.

Excellent book! My ten year old is learning about green energy in her 4th grade class. At the ripe old age of ten she has been citing how awful fossil fuels are for the earth and lead to global warming. I gave her this book for an alternative view. The book had a huge impact and opened up a discussion that global warming is not an open and shut case. I want to avoid having her indoctrinated in the global warming hysteria and rather learn the fundamentals of science, including the fact that many of the real-world observations have contradicted the predictions of global warming.

Excellent book about how the Fossil Fuel Industry needs to change its messaging and perhaps even go on the offensive.

never heard this point of view, love the counter points to the otherwise one sided argument and fear mongering

With the ongoing environmental socialist movement around the globe ruining energy policies of countries, Alex Epstein put forth a great argument from a Moral perspective that ought to put the hypocritical environmentalists to shame.

I am not an environmental expert, nor do I ever want to be. However, the sheer volume of articles published on environmental issues, followed by the significant and rash cultural suppression of freedom, rights, and industrialization by the use of government force demands that anyone who wants to live his life to its fullest take some interest on the issue. I have had this book in my pile for some time and, having now finished it, I can see the value of its material in challenging those ideas that are dominant today.

he's telling the truth about a situation that has been saying bag by the environment with radicals for yearslet me repeat this this is something that has been saying bag by the environmental radicals for years another words it's a lie but he's telling the truth

A must read for people wanting to know the truth concerning global warning.

This is one of the most well thought out arguments for anything I have ever read before. Fantastic book!

This book offers a much needed logical and sensible articulation of this much-politicized arena where uneducated opinion, political objective and fictional narrative is too often peddled as fact with an almost religious fever. Alex Epstein does an excellent job of presenting the relevant facts, useful & sensible perspectives and a logic framework to help separate fact from fiction in this highly charged debate. Energy, and specifically energy from fossil fuels, is far too important for sustenance of and further progress of our level of civilization to let luddites and back-to-nature zealots dominate the discussion with ill-informed or emotionally manufactured "facts", half-truths or outright fiction. This well-crafted, easy-to-consume and compelling book sets the stage towards a more rational fact-based dialog concerning the value of and essentiality of fossil fuels. I enjoyed this book immensely, as did those in my circle of friends & family I shared it with.

Really enjoyed this book for its clear thinking and excellent arguments. We are bombarded daily with "green propaganda" and it is refreshing to finally have a clear, thoughtful, comprehensive, and moral case for why to use fossil fuels be presented in such a logical and understandable format. The authors insights into the fallacies of the "green" arguments and his emphasis on the incredibly positive contributions that energy has on improving human life were most appreciated. The obvious benefits of using fossil fuels are so enormous and the proven technologies to manage the negatives clearly make the case for the increased use of fossil fuels for the betterment of the human race.

This is a good book, full of valuable information. I saw an interview of the author, Alex Epstein online and bought the book on the strength of that interview. Epstein is an articulate man, well versed in his subject, with a lucid reason why fossil fuels are good for humans. He points out the energy available in fossil fuels is indispensable to the flourishing of mankind. Curtailing the use of that energy without some other source being available will bring death to billions of people. The dire consequences predicted for using fossil fuels have not materialized. The only dire consequences from fossil fuel usage has been in the computer models, and the models have not been accurate. The slight warming of the past century, about a half degree, has been a help, not a hinderance to making this planet livable. Carbon dioxide is a plant fertilizer. Other than hydro and atomic sources, there are no realistic alternatives to fossil fuels. So-called "renewable" sources of energy, wind and solar, are intermittent, therefore not reliable, and the rare earths needed for building wind turbines and solar panels are extremely polluting. Hydro and atomic sources of energy face opposition from environmental groups concerned with safety or esthetic problems.

This is a great book!! It describes everything that fossil fuels have given to the world. Fossil fuels provide us with our wonderful life—our homes, our food, our clothing, our medicines and hospitals, all of our transportationn, computers, cell phoness, etc. You name it and fossil energy is behind it—there is absolutely nothing else on this earth, other than fossil energy, that makes our lives comfortable and safe. Epstein describes the very real problems in the use of, so-called, ‘renewables.’ He explains why converting to them means the death of millions of people around the world.

Too often the public is bombarded by news stories, films and celebrities/politicians stating how fossil fuel energy is an extreme danger to our existence. The mainstream media does not even attempt to show a perspective that might be different from this viewpoint. Alex Epstein has written an intelligent and well referenced book pointing out the growth of industrialized societies due mainly through fossil fuel energy. He raises many excellent points regarding the benefits of fossil fuels. In particular, I was impacted by the idea that United States energy policies against fossil fuels have had an extremely negative effect on economically poor nations. For these people, it is a matter of life or death. The real crime is the elite establishment forcing their agendas on the poor people of the world - people whose lives could be vastly improved by fossil fuel energy. Whether you are for or against decreasing fossil fuel usage, this book is well worth your time to read and become more informed about these issues. Thanks Alex.

Refreshing perspective about one of the most important elements that's made our modern world great. I've heard of many of the difficulties with 'renewables' mostly dealing with intermittency and cost ($ & environment) but rarely do you hear about the scalability when talking about 8 billion people. His main premise is that fossil fuels being cheap, plentiful, and reliable have done the best work for human flourishing and as technology advances the risks are negated. Hardly ever do you hear about a reward/risk comparison when talking about oil, you only hear necessary evils or just end of the world predictions due to climate changes. The issue is the climate IS dangerous but having means ands the ability we can make it as safe as possible for humans.

Epstein makes a good case for the value of fossil fuels, especially in developing countries. And points out, that without them, most Western nations would go backwards into Third World status themselves. The book's a bit repetitive, but worth reading.

I enjoyed the philosophical argument that fossil fuel is even good for the planet. It seems nowadays we have to be careful of blaspheming against the holy narrative of man made climate change, as if it is criticism exempt.

I had never thought of the energy debate as one about morals. A basic fight between those who want to better peoples lives versus those who want to better what they believe to be nature.

Almost to the end in just a few days. Direct, well-referenced and with historical context on many facets of the topic. Developing countries have as much right to inexpensive energy as today's first-world nations did during their development. The author describes in detail, both historically and currently, how those seeking grants and influence thereby sell their credibility as hundreds of their dire predictions have come to nothing. Predictions of the 70s have us all wearing gas masks in the cities by now and also predicted that Britain would be a near-desert wasteland by 2020. The world was to be soon to run out of oil. So many of these negative predictions failed to foresee the ability to "scrub" emissions, failed to foresee advances in oil and gas extraction, and basically underestimated the scientists and engineers who have accomplished so much in the face of such negativity. Dusting off those dire predictions and holding them up to the light gives us some inkling of how likely the new set of dire predictions may play out. New to me was a detailed examination of research indicating accelerated growth in many plants with the slight increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide. One of the best revelations was a side-by-side comparison of global temperature change of the 102 computer models that FAIL epically to predict anything. Only two of the 102 models come anywhere close and even those two overshot reality by a sizeable margin. Truth is: it's complicated far beyond the ability to predict.

So great to see a young Ayn Rand disciple applying the technique of reducing two sides of a debate to their underlying moral premises in this crucial area of energy philosophy. Armed with the moral high ground and empirical data to back up his case, Alex Epstein has earned his place as one of the world leaders in providing clarity and hope to those of us who worry about the destructive potential of the environmental movement.

Detailed analysis and explanations regarding media and activist misrepresentation of the oil energy industry. I liked the book, it is informative and eye opening.

Excellent book. Everyone should read

Great written and great argued from "the other side".

This is a book everyone needs to read, especially Liberals!

Refreshing to here the benefits of fossil fuel and how we owe our standard of living to its use.

The Moral Case for Fossil Fuels is a much-needed counterpoint to the grossly one-sided ideological environmental crusade that too many people consider respectable and “mainstream.” I can’t thank Epstein enough for adding this valuable contribution to the public dialogue. We can only hope that more students, journalists, and government officials read this book, understand the big picture, and boldly take a stand for human civilization against the misanthropic forces that would all but tear it apart.

Great book! Brings up a lot of good points!

very interesting study of the effects of the use of fossil fuels on the world. Also gives a complete analysis of the effectiveness of alternate fuels

Good information on the real case for fossil fuels.

It doesn't take long for the author to set up his main point, and it's a good one. Well worth the time.

Really enjoyed this book for its clear thinking and excellent arguments. We are bombarded daily with "green propaganda" and it is refreshing to finally have a clear, thoughtful, comprehensive, and moral case for why to use fossil fuels be presented in such a logical and understandable format. The authors insights into the fallacies of the "green" arguments and his emphasis on the incredibly positive contributions that energy has on improving human life were most appreciated. The obvious benefits of using fossil fuels are so enormous and the proven technologies to manage the negatives clearly make the case for the increased use of fossil fuels for the betterment of the human race.

This is a good book, full of valuable information. I saw an interview of the author, Alex Epstein online and bought the book on the strength of that interview. Epstein is an articulate man, well versed in his subject, with a lucid reason why fossil fuels are good for humans. He points out the energy available in fossil fuels is indispensable to the flourishing of mankind. Curtailing the use of that energy without some other source being available will bring death to billions of people. The dire consequences predicted for using fossil fuels have not materialized. The only dire consequences from fossil fuel usage has been in the computer models, and the models have not been accurate. The slight warming of the past century, about a half degree, has been a help, not a hinderance to making this planet livable. Carbon dioxide is a plant fertilizer. Other than hydro and atomic sources, there are no realistic alternatives to fossil fuels. So-called "renewable" sources of energy, wind and solar, are intermittent, therefore not reliable, and the rare earths needed for building wind turbines and solar panels are extremely polluting. Hydro and atomic sources of energy face opposition from environmental groups concerned with safety or esthetic problems.

This is a great book!! It describes everything that fossil fuels have given to the world. Fossil fuels provide us with our wonderful life—our homes, our food, our clothing, our medicines and hospitals, all of our transportationn, computers, cell phoness, etc. You name it and fossil energy is behind it—there is absolutely nothing else on this earth, other than fossil energy, that makes our lives comfortable and safe. Epstein describes the very real problems in the use of, so-called, ‘renewables.’ He explains why converting to them means the death of millions of people around the world.

Too often the public is bombarded by news stories, films and celebrities/politicians stating how fossil fuel energy is an extreme danger to our existence. The mainstream media does not even attempt to show a perspective that might be different from this viewpoint. Alex Epstein has written an intelligent and well referenced book pointing out the growth of industrialized societies due mainly through fossil fuel energy. He raises many excellent points regarding the benefits of fossil fuels. In particular, I was impacted by the idea that United States energy policies against fossil fuels have had an extremely negative effect on economically poor nations. For these people, it is a matter of life or death. The real crime is the elite establishment forcing their agendas on the poor people of the world - people whose lives could be vastly improved by fossil fuel energy. Whether you are for or against decreasing fossil fuel usage, this book is well worth your time to read and become more informed about these issues. Thanks Alex.

Refreshing perspective about one of the most important elements that's made our modern world great. I've heard of many of the difficulties with 'renewables' mostly dealing with intermittency and cost ($ & environment) but rarely do you hear about the scalability when talking about 8 billion people. His main premise is that fossil fuels being cheap, plentiful, and reliable have done the best work for human flourishing and as technology advances the risks are negated. Hardly ever do you hear about a reward/risk comparison when talking about oil, you only hear necessary evils or just end of the world predictions due to climate changes. The issue is the climate IS dangerous but having means ands the ability we can make it as safe as possible for humans.

Epstein makes a good case for the value of fossil fuels, especially in developing countries. And points out, that without them, most Western nations would go backwards into Third World status themselves. The book's a bit repetitive, but worth reading.

I enjoyed the philosophical argument that fossil fuel is even good for the planet. It seems nowadays we have to be careful of blaspheming against the holy narrative of man made climate change, as if it is criticism exempt.

I had never thought of the energy debate as one about morals. A basic fight between those who want to better peoples lives versus those who want to better what they believe to be nature.

Almost to the end in just a few days. Direct, well-referenced and with historical context on many facets of the topic. Developing countries have as much right to inexpensive energy as today's first-world nations did during their development. The author describes in detail, both historically and currently, how those seeking grants and influence thereby sell their credibility as hundreds of their dire predictions have come to nothing. Predictions of the 70s have us all wearing gas masks in the cities by now and also predicted that Britain would be a near-desert wasteland by 2020. The world was to be soon to run out of oil. So many of these negative predictions failed to foresee the ability to "scrub" emissions, failed to foresee advances in oil and gas extraction, and basically underestimated the scientists and engineers who have accomplished so much in the face of such negativity. Dusting off those dire predictions and holding them up to the light gives us some inkling of how likely the new set of dire predictions may play out. New to me was a detailed examination of research indicating accelerated growth in many plants with the slight increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide. One of the best revelations was a side-by-side comparison of global temperature change of the 102 computer models that FAIL epically to predict anything. Only two of the 102 models come anywhere close and even those two overshot reality by a sizeable margin. Truth is: it's complicated far beyond the ability to predict.

So great to see a young Ayn Rand disciple applying the technique of reducing two sides of a debate to their underlying moral premises in this crucial area of energy philosophy. Armed with the moral high ground and empirical data to back up his case, Alex Epstein has earned his place as one of the world leaders in providing clarity and hope to those of us who worry about the destructive potential of the environmental movement.

Moral wisdom and intellectual clarity, very well-written. Turns environmental PC on its head. Life saving, life building implications. My highest recommendation!

A concise rational examination of fossil fuels and the role they play in human prosperity. Also a great source for answers to the common talking points of pretty much everyone you meet on the topic of evil fossil fuels.

Good explanation for the use of fossil fuels until as cheap and plentiful comes along.

A little pricey, but it came fast and will make a great read.

Great read - really great information and well put together!

I became a fan of Alex Epstein through reading his blogs and articles in "The Objective Standard," but in "The Moral Case for Fossil Fuels," he accomplishes much more. Most people will look at the title and wonder what it could possibly mean. After all, doesn't everyone know that fossil fuels are dirty and destructive: at best, a necessary evil to be minimized as quickly and completely as possible; at worst, a plague upon the earth, whose effects have already gone too far to save mankind from assured destruction? And here's someone making a case FOR fossil fuels? A MORAL case for fossil fuels? Is the man completely crazy? Readers will soon discover that, far from being out of touch with reality, Epstein is thoroughly in touch ... with reality, with the requirements of human life on earth, with the science of energy production and use, and with the practical implications of energy usage on YOUR life, and the lives of your children and on future generations. This is a must read. And it's so well written, it's an easy read. Don't miss it ... it'll blow you away!

Good presentation

This book brings a big picture view of the revolutionary role fossil fuels have played in exponentially lowering deaths from climate itself and deaths and sickness from lack of access to quality energy. It dispels the myth that unreliables like solar and wind could now or in the near future replace fossil fuels, or that they even should. If your standard of value is human flourishing, and if you are an independent-thinker who may be confused by the ever-more-shrill arbitrary claims by powerful and wealthy climate change alarmists, then this book is a must-read. It will clearly-written, but not overly technical. Finally: A moral case for the one thing all of our lives depend on for EVERYTHING!

Excellent book, Alex gives a clear detailed answer on the benefits of fossil fuels to humankind.

If you approach this book with an open mind, you will learn a lot and will enjoy the read.

Really enjoyed this book for its clear thinking and excellent arguments. We are bombarded daily with "green propaganda" and it is refreshing to finally have a clear, thoughtful, comprehensive, and moral case for why to use fossil fuels be presented in such a logical and understandable format. The authors insights into the fallacies of the "green" arguments and his emphasis on the incredibly positive contributions that energy has on improving human life were most appreciated. The obvious benefits of using fossil fuels are so enormous and the proven technologies to manage the negatives clearly make the case for the increased use of fossil fuels for the betterment of the human race.

This is a good book, full of valuable information. I saw an interview of the author, Alex Epstein online and bought the book on the strength of that interview. Epstein is an articulate man, well versed in his subject, with a lucid reason why fossil fuels are good for humans. He points out the energy available in fossil fuels is indispensable to the flourishing of mankind. Curtailing the use of that energy without some other source being available will bring death to billions of people. The dire consequences predicted for using fossil fuels have not materialized. The only dire consequences from fossil fuel usage has been in the computer models, and the models have not been accurate. The slight warming of the past century, about a half degree, has been a help, not a hinderance to making this planet livable. Carbon dioxide is a plant fertilizer. Other than hydro and atomic sources, there are no realistic alternatives to fossil fuels. So-called "renewable" sources of energy, wind and solar, are intermittent, therefore not reliable, and the rare earths needed for building wind turbines and solar panels are extremely polluting. Hydro and atomic sources of energy face opposition from environmental groups concerned with safety or esthetic problems.

This is a great book!! It describes everything that fossil fuels have given to the world. Fossil fuels provide us with our wonderful life—our homes, our food, our clothing, our medicines and hospitals, all of our transportationn, computers, cell phoness, etc. You name it and fossil energy is behind it—there is absolutely nothing else on this earth, other than fossil energy, that makes our lives comfortable and safe. Epstein describes the very real problems in the use of, so-called, ‘renewables.’ He explains why converting to them means the death of millions of people around the world.

Too often the public is bombarded by news stories, films and celebrities/politicians stating how fossil fuel energy is an extreme danger to our existence. The mainstream media does not even attempt to show a perspective that might be different from this viewpoint. Alex Epstein has written an intelligent and well referenced book pointing out the growth of industrialized societies due mainly through fossil fuel energy. He raises many excellent points regarding the benefits of fossil fuels. In particular, I was impacted by the idea that United States energy policies against fossil fuels have had an extremely negative effect on economically poor nations. For these people, it is a matter of life or death. The real crime is the elite establishment forcing their agendas on the poor people of the world - people whose lives could be vastly improved by fossil fuel energy. Whether you are for or against decreasing fossil fuel usage, this book is well worth your time to read and become more informed about these issues. Thanks Alex.

Refreshing perspective about one of the most important elements that's made our modern world great. I've heard of many of the difficulties with 'renewables' mostly dealing with intermittency and cost ($ & environment) but rarely do you hear about the scalability when talking about 8 billion people. His main premise is that fossil fuels being cheap, plentiful, and reliable have done the best work for human flourishing and as technology advances the risks are negated. Hardly ever do you hear about a reward/risk comparison when talking about oil, you only hear necessary evils or just end of the world predictions due to climate changes. The issue is the climate IS dangerous but having means ands the ability we can make it as safe as possible for humans.

Epstein makes a good case for the value of fossil fuels, especially in developing countries. And points out, that without them, most Western nations would go backwards into Third World status themselves. The book's a bit repetitive, but worth reading.

I enjoyed the philosophical argument that fossil fuel is even good for the planet. It seems nowadays we have to be careful of blaspheming against the holy narrative of man made climate change, as if it is criticism exempt.

I had never thought of the energy debate as one about morals. A basic fight between those who want to better peoples lives versus those who want to better what they believe to be nature.

Almost to the end in just a few days. Direct, well-referenced and with historical context on many facets of the topic. Developing countries have as much right to inexpensive energy as today's first-world nations did during their development. The author describes in detail, both historically and currently, how those seeking grants and influence thereby sell their credibility as hundreds of their dire predictions have come to nothing. Predictions of the 70s have us all wearing gas masks in the cities by now and also predicted that Britain would be a near-desert wasteland by 2020. The world was to be soon to run out of oil. So many of these negative predictions failed to foresee the ability to "scrub" emissions, failed to foresee advances in oil and gas extraction, and basically underestimated the scientists and engineers who have accomplished so much in the face of such negativity. Dusting off those dire predictions and holding them up to the light gives us some inkling of how likely the new set of dire predictions may play out. New to me was a detailed examination of research indicating accelerated growth in many plants with the slight increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide. One of the best revelations was a side-by-side comparison of global temperature change of the 102 computer models that FAIL epically to predict anything. Only two of the 102 models come anywhere close and even those two overshot reality by a sizeable margin. Truth is: it's complicated far beyond the ability to predict.

So great to see a young Ayn Rand disciple applying the technique of reducing two sides of a debate to their underlying moral premises in this crucial area of energy philosophy. Armed with the moral high ground and empirical data to back up his case, Alex Epstein has earned his place as one of the world leaders in providing clarity and hope to those of us who worry about the destructive potential of the environmental movement.

Philosophy - who needs it? As Alex Epstein makes abundantly clear, anyone who is concerned about the well being of our civilization. Energy policy is one of the most pressing issues of our time, and unfortunately one of the most poorly framed in terms of its discussion. Combining philosophical big picture thinking with compassion and common sense, Epstein properly frames the energy debate in properly humanistic terms: What are the benefits and risks of using fossil fuels versus curtailing them? How do so-called alternatives compare? What does energy risk-benefit analysis imply for the promotion of human flourishing? In answering these questions, Epstein convincingly argues that fossil fuels are effective not only in powering modern industry, but also in creating a cleaner environment, that there are no viable renewable alternatives, and that our high energy civilization made possible by fossil fuels is more than equipped to deal with their side-effects, including global warming. Epstein thoroughly debunks the modern environmentalist eschatology of resource depletion and climate catastrophism. For anyone concerned with creating healthiest and wealthiest human civilization possible for generations to come, this book is a must-read.

A straightforward and well written book. I recommend everyone who reads this book to explore more topics posted on the Cato Institute's website and podcast.

A fresh take on the question of fossil fuel and the benefit provided to mankind in improving health, safety and quality of life. Every argument deserved to hear both points of view and the book does what the energy industry has failed to do which is highlight the positive benefits versus playing defense on the negatives. The common sense arguments are well founded. Where would mankind be today without fossil fuels? At a much lower standard of living, with shorter lifespans, and with a much higher mortality rate, that's where. Every argument needs to have both sides heard.

A must read for anyone with an open mind.

Excellent book. Every member of Congress should have a copy. As an engineer, I would have liked to see a bit more data, perhaps in an appendix. One suggestion: build on the Gambia story and say: what would it take to provide the energy for 1 million people and their homes, some hospitals, water/sewage plants there? And how do the alternatives compare? Can we even do it at all with solar and wind if we wanted to (given the unreliability)?

Do you want to know the real story about fossil fuels? Begin with this book.

Excellent book on the risks and benefits of using fossil fuels.

great read and perspective.

Excellent book. Clear and thought provoking. If you believe in freedom, promoting human life and prosperity you should read this book.

This book helped me to change my points of view and paradigms in relation to climate change and fossil fuels.

Really enjoyed this book for its clear thinking and excellent arguments. We are bombarded daily with "green propaganda" and it is refreshing to finally have a clear, thoughtful, comprehensive, and moral case for why to use fossil fuels be presented in such a logical and understandable format. The authors insights into the fallacies of the "green" arguments and his emphasis on the incredibly positive contributions that energy has on improving human life were most appreciated. The obvious benefits of using fossil fuels are so enormous and the proven technologies to manage the negatives clearly make the case for the increased use of fossil fuels for the betterment of the human race.

This is a good book, full of valuable information. I saw an interview of the author, Alex Epstein online and bought the book on the strength of that interview. Epstein is an articulate man, well versed in his subject, with a lucid reason why fossil fuels are good for humans. He points out the energy available in fossil fuels is indispensable to the flourishing of mankind. Curtailing the use of that energy without some other source being available will bring death to billions of people. The dire consequences predicted for using fossil fuels have not materialized. The only dire consequences from fossil fuel usage has been in the computer models, and the models have not been accurate. The slight warming of the past century, about a half degree, has been a help, not a hinderance to making this planet livable. Carbon dioxide is a plant fertilizer. Other than hydro and atomic sources, there are no realistic alternatives to fossil fuels. So-called "renewable" sources of energy, wind and solar, are intermittent, therefore not reliable, and the rare earths needed for building wind turbines and solar panels are extremely polluting. Hydro and atomic sources of energy face opposition from environmental groups concerned with safety or esthetic problems.

This is a great book!! It describes everything that fossil fuels have given to the world. Fossil fuels provide us with our wonderful life—our homes, our food, our clothing, our medicines and hospitals, all of our transportationn, computers, cell phoness, etc. You name it and fossil energy is behind it—there is absolutely nothing else on this earth, other than fossil energy, that makes our lives comfortable and safe. Epstein describes the very real problems in the use of, so-called, ‘renewables.’ He explains why converting to them means the death of millions of people around the world.

Too often the public is bombarded by news stories, films and celebrities/politicians stating how fossil fuel energy is an extreme danger to our existence. The mainstream media does not even attempt to show a perspective that might be different from this viewpoint. Alex Epstein has written an intelligent and well referenced book pointing out the growth of industrialized societies due mainly through fossil fuel energy. He raises many excellent points regarding the benefits of fossil fuels. In particular, I was impacted by the idea that United States energy policies against fossil fuels have had an extremely negative effect on economically poor nations. For these people, it is a matter of life or death. The real crime is the elite establishment forcing their agendas on the poor people of the world - people whose lives could be vastly improved by fossil fuel energy. Whether you are for or against decreasing fossil fuel usage, this book is well worth your time to read and become more informed about these issues. Thanks Alex.

Refreshing perspective about one of the most important elements that's made our modern world great. I've heard of many of the difficulties with 'renewables' mostly dealing with intermittency and cost ($ & environment) but rarely do you hear about the scalability when talking about 8 billion people. His main premise is that fossil fuels being cheap, plentiful, and reliable have done the best work for human flourishing and as technology advances the risks are negated. Hardly ever do you hear about a reward/risk comparison when talking about oil, you only hear necessary evils or just end of the world predictions due to climate changes. The issue is the climate IS dangerous but having means ands the ability we can make it as safe as possible for humans.

Epstein makes a good case for the value of fossil fuels, especially in developing countries. And points out, that without them, most Western nations would go backwards into Third World status themselves. The book's a bit repetitive, but worth reading.

I enjoyed the philosophical argument that fossil fuel is even good for the planet. It seems nowadays we have to be careful of blaspheming against the holy narrative of man made climate change, as if it is criticism exempt.

I had never thought of the energy debate as one about morals. A basic fight between those who want to better peoples lives versus those who want to better what they believe to be nature.

Almost to the end in just a few days. Direct, well-referenced and with historical context on many facets of the topic. Developing countries have as much right to inexpensive energy as today's first-world nations did during their development. The author describes in detail, both historically and currently, how those seeking grants and influence thereby sell their credibility as hundreds of their dire predictions have come to nothing. Predictions of the 70s have us all wearing gas masks in the cities by now and also predicted that Britain would be a near-desert wasteland by 2020. The world was to be soon to run out of oil. So many of these negative predictions failed to foresee the ability to "scrub" emissions, failed to foresee advances in oil and gas extraction, and basically underestimated the scientists and engineers who have accomplished so much in the face of such negativity. Dusting off those dire predictions and holding them up to the light gives us some inkling of how likely the new set of dire predictions may play out. New to me was a detailed examination of research indicating accelerated growth in many plants with the slight increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide. One of the best revelations was a side-by-side comparison of global temperature change of the 102 computer models that FAIL epically to predict anything. Only two of the 102 models come anywhere close and even those two overshot reality by a sizeable margin. Truth is: it's complicated far beyond the ability to predict.

So great to see a young Ayn Rand disciple applying the technique of reducing two sides of a debate to their underlying moral premises in this crucial area of energy philosophy. Armed with the moral high ground and empirical data to back up his case, Alex Epstein has earned his place as one of the world leaders in providing clarity and hope to those of us who worry about the destructive potential of the environmental movement.

The author treats an ignored aspect of the war on fossil fuel. Economic impact should be considered in any decision aimed at restricting use of carbon based fuels.

“Almost nothing matters more to our lives, the lives of those you care about, and the lives of billion of others around the world than the existence of cheap, plentiful, reliable energy.” - Alex Epstein, The Moral Case for Fossil Fuels. As I read these words this Thanksgiving Day, I sat in relative comfort while my turkey was roasting. I listened to Christmas music on internet radio, sipping hot coffee and scouring the internet for the best Christmas gifts. Then I got this text from my mom: Screen Shot 2014-11-27 at 3.32.58 PM My family lives in New Hampshire where a heavy storm knocked out the power on the eve of Thanksgiving. Reports said “Cato’s heavy snow brought down power lines and knocked out utilities for more than 270,000 homes, from Virginia to Maine.” You can’t cook a turkey on Thanksgiving, or turn on the heat for that matter, without power. And most of the power we all use comes from fossil fuels. It is in exactly this context that we need to consider the public statements of today’s supposed experts on energy. Take “James Hansen, probably the world’s most politically prominent climate scientist: ‘CEOs of fossil energy companies know what they are doing [by emitting CO2] and are aware of long-term consequences of continued business as usual. In my opinion, these CEOs should be tried for high crimes against humanity and nature.” In his new book, The Moral Case for Fossil Fuels, energy expert Alex Epstein has curated a mountain of data showing unequivocally that such claims are, well… noise pollution. His research shows that in all areas, including environmental cleanliness and safety, we are far better off using fossil fuels than not. “This book is about morality, about right and wrong. To me, the question of what to do about fossil fuels and any other moral issue comes down to: What will promote human life? What will promote human flourishing - realizing the full potential of human life? Colloquially, how do we maximize the years in our life and the life in our years? When we look at the recent past, the past that was supposed to be so disastrous, we should look at flourishing - and that of course includes that quality (or lack thereof) of our environment.” Obviously, if we care about living the best lives we can, we definitely do not want to pollute ourselves out of existence. We don’t want to destroy the scenic beauty in which we can find “spiritual” fuel and reset our mental screens. Nor do we want to destroy these values for future generations or for today’s undeveloped countries. But at the very base of our incredible civilization is a need for cheap, reliable, plentiful energy. A gripping tale about just one day at a hospital in The Gambia without cheap, reliable, plentiful energy shows what life was and could be like again if our politically connected green lobbyists ever realize their vision. So what we need to do then, is take an in-depth look, not just at all the negatives we hear so much about from energy’s leading spokespeople, but the positives as well. We need to zoom out and consider, without bias, all of the factors affecting our lives now and in the future. Epstein says: “I understand that a lot of smart people are predicting catastrophic consequences from using fossil feels, I take that very seriously, and I have studied their predictions extensively. And what I've found is this: leading experts in the media have been making the exact same predictions for more than 30 years. As far back as the 1970s they predicted that if we did not dramatically reduce fossil fuel use then, and use renewables instead, we would be experiencing catastrophe today-catastrophic resource depletion, catastrophic pollution, and catastrophic climate change. Instead, the exact opposite has happened. Instead of using a lot less fossil fuel energy, we used a lot more-but instead of long term catastrophe, we have experienced dramatic, long-term improvement in every aspect of life, including environmental quality. The risks and side effects of using fossil fuels declined while the benefits-cheap, reliable energy and everything it brings–expanded to billions more people.” We’ve all heard about runaway catastrophic climate change. As celebrity environmentalist Bill McKibben put it in 1989, “The choice of doing nothing - of continuing to burn ever more oil and coal - is not a choice, in other words. It will lead us, if not straight to hell, then straight to a place with a similar temperature… a few more decades of ungoverned fossil-fuel use and we burn up, to put it bluntly.” So, what’s come of this prediction? Epstein shows, with the help of 102 compiled climate prediction models, the extent of the exaggeration of claims like McKibben’s. “Those who speculate that CO2 is a major driver of climate have, to their credit, made predictions based on computer models that reflect their view of how the climate works. But fatally, those models have failed to make accurate predictions - not just a little, but completely.” “Unfortunately, many of the scientists, scientific bodies, and especially public intellectuals and media members have not been honest with the public about the failure of their predictions. Like all too many who are attached to a theory that ends up contradicting reality, they have tried to pretend that reality is different from what it is, to the point of extreme and extremely dangerous dishonesty.” Though labelled by Rolling Stone as one of the “Global Warming Denier Elite” Epstein and company don’t deny climate change per se. That the greenhouse effect does cause a mild warming is sound science. But what alarmists attempt to do is equate mild warming with the catastrophic, runaway warming of our planet. As the data bears out, this is false. But, on the other side of the coin, how often do you hear about CO2’s positive effect on on the world’s plant life? How often is it pointed out that fossil fuel powered agriculture is responsible feeding the world? Or that there is a direct correlation between fossil fuel use and income, increased life expectancy, and history’s lowest known infant mortality rates? Take this interesting fact that Epstein points out: “In the last eighty years, as CO2 emissions have most rapidly escalated, the annual rate of climate-related deaths worldwide fell by an incredible rate of 98 percent. That means the incidence of death from climate is fifty times lower than it was eighty years ago.” It is undeniable that fossil fuels have improved our lives tremendously. But will they continue to do so? “Stories of rampant smog in Chinese cities bring fears that the situation will inevitably get worse there and in any other country that industrializes. Fortunately, our experience in the United States illustrates that things can progressively get better.” EPA measurements graphed in the book show an incredible downward trend in U.S. air pollution since the 1970s, even though we are using more fossil fuels now than ever before. “There were no computer problems before computers. And just as we use computers to help solve computer problems, so we can use fossil fuels to help solve fossil fuel problems…” And that’s exactly what we have been doing. A fossil fuel powered civilization means less manual labor, means more time for discovery, means more innovation and problem solving, means less pollution. In area after area, Epstein shows that the more energy we have to use, the cleaner, safer, better we make our environment. But, why take any risk? Why can’t we all cook our turkeys or heat our homes with “cleaner” solar or wind energy? Renewable energy like solar and wind requires difficult to extract rare earth minerals that must be separated from other materials with harsh chemicals like hydrofluoric acid. Here I think it’s necessary to quote at length one of the most poignant scenes in the book: a firsthand account of a rare earth mine from reporter Simon Parry. “On the outskirts of one of China’s most polluted cities, an old farmer stares despairingly out across an immense lake of bubbling toxic waste covered in black dust. He remembers it as fields of wheat and corn.” “Hidden out of sight behind smoke-shrouded factory complexes in the city of Baotou, and patrolled by platoons of security guards, lies a five-mile-wide ‘tailing’ lake. It has killed farmland for miles around, made thousands of people ill and put one of China’s key waterways in jeopardy.” “This vast, hissing cauldron of chemicals is dumping ground for seven million tons a year of mined rare earth after it has been doused in acid and chemicals and processed through red-hot furnaces to extract its components.” “…When we finally break through the cordon and climb sand dunes to reach its brim, an apocalyptic sight greets us: a giant, secret toxic dump…” “The lake instantly assaults your senses. Stand on the black crust for just seconds and your eyes water and a powerful, acrid stench fills your lungs.” “For hours after our visit, my stomach lurched and my head throbbed. We were there for only one hour, but those who live in Mr. Yan’s village of Dalahai, and other villages around, breathe in the same poison every day.” “People too began to suffer. Dalahai villagers say their teeth began to fall out, their hair turned white at unusually young ages, and they suffered from severe skin and respiratory diseases. Children were born with soft bones and cancer rates rocketed.” Note, this is just one part of the process for creating so-called renewables. Here, Epstein points out that, just as with fossil fuels, we must consider and weigh all of the positives and negatives when considering whether using a given energy source is right or wrong. So, given human ingenuity, and the fact that we likely could make this process cleaner and safer over time, what else do we need to consider about renewables? What would a solar powered hospital be like? “While energy from, say, coal is available on demand so you can keep a refrigerator - or a respirator - on whenever you need it, solar energy is available when the the sun shines and the clouds cooperate, which means it can work only if it’s combined with a reliable source of energy, such as coal, gas, nuclear, or hydro… Here’s the bottom line with solar, wind, and biofuels - the three types of energy typically promoted in renewables mandates. There is zero evidence that solar, wind, and biomass can meaningfully supplement fossil fuel energy, let alone provide the energy growth that is desperately needed. If, in the future, those industries are able to overcome the many intractable problems involved in making dilute, unreliable energy into cheap, plentiful, reliable energy on a world scale, that would be fantastic. But it is dishonest to pretend that anything like that has happened or that there is a reason to think it will happen.” Epstein makes it clear that no other fuel is up to the task of providing the energy we need to live and thrive - that, in fact, everyone will benefit from far more fossil-fuel energy than we currently have. So, why do our politically charged environmental leaders have it out for fossil fuels when they have such an undeniable positive impact on our lives and there is clearly no other fuel up to the task? Consider the following statement by research biologist, David Graber, with the National Park service, in his review of Bill McKibben’s The End of Nature. “McKibben is a biocentrist, and so am I. We are not interested in the utility of a particular species or free-flowing river, or ecosystem, to mankind. They have intrinsic value, more value - to me - than another human body, or a billion of them. Human happiness, and certainly human fecundity, are not as important as a wild and healthy planet. I know social scientists who remind me that people are a part of nature, but it isn’t true. Somewhere along the line - at about a billion [sic] years ago, maybe half that - we quit the contract and became a cancer. We have become a plague upon ourselves and upon the Earth. It is cosmically unlikely that the developed world will choose to end its orgy of fossil-energy consumption, and the Third World its suicidal consumption of landscape. Until such time as Homo sapiens should decide to rejoin nature, some of us can only hope for the right virus to come along.” Here’s another answer that Epstein quotes from, “Prince Phillip, former head of the World Wildlife Fund..” “In the event that I am reincarnated, I would like to return as a deadly virus, in order to contribute something to solve overpopulation.” As Epstein shows, it is not that our leading environmental thinkers want us to have the best, cleanest energy and mistakenly believe we should get it somewhere else. It is that they hold an entirely different standard in regard to what is good. If we drain a swamp to rid of a village of malarial mosquitoes, that is definitely good, on a human standard. But, if “human nonimpact” is your standard, if you hold the “environment” (including the malarial mosquito, or even the bacteria in your water) to be of greater importance than human life, than “the good” is to let those mosquitoes be, and to let those people keep on dying from a preventable disease. “The reason we have come to oppose fossil fuels and not see their virtues is not primarily because of a lack of factual knowledge, but because of the presence of irrational moral prejudice in our leaders and, to a degree, in our entire culture.” “We’re not taught that some people truly believe that human life doesn’t matter, and that their goal is not to help us triumph over nature’s obstacles, but to remove us as an obstacle to nature.” By the standard of human nonimpact - all energy is bad. It is bad because it gives us tremendous power to transform our environment and our lives for the better, to power the tractor that saves the farmer from eighteen hour days of back-breaking labor, to cultivate food supplies on a massive scale, to allow the farmer’s son to stay in school, go to college, and become a doctor, to study and cure diseases and save lives. Epstein shows that this is what our “energy experts” oppose. Consider these words from a man considered to be among the world’s leading authorities on energy, Amory Lovins: “Complex technology of any sort is an assault on human dignity. It would be little short of disastrous for us to discover a source of clean, cheap, abundant energy, because of what we might do with it.” I know what my parents would have done with it this Thanksgiving; cooked a damn turkey. To hold human nonimpact as the standard of value is to ask the human race to stop changing, stop trying, stop living. It is entirely corrupt and immoral. On the other hand, when we look at the big picture, it’s clear that using fossil fuels to live and thrive is incredibly moral. Epstein says, “There is a group of people who are working every day to make sure that the machines that can make us safe from our naturally dangerous climate and enable us to thrive in it have all the energy they need. These people work in coal mines, on oil rigs, in laboratories, in boardrooms, all devoted to figuring out how to produce plentiful, reliable energy at prices you can afford - because that is what their well-being depends on and, in my experience, because they believe that is is the right thing to do. Those are the people in the fossil fuel industry, who are dehumanized in the media on a daily basis, who are tarred as Big Oil or, in the case of workers, such as coal miners, are portrayed as dupes who don’t know what they’re doing, that aren’t wise enough to know they’re making our climate unlivable through the work that supports themselves and their families.” “Actually it is the top environmentalist intellectuals who lack climate wisdom. Because they are unwilling to think in an unbiased way about the benefits and risks of fossil fuels according to a human standard of value, they are blinded to the fact that the fossil fuel industry is the reason they’re alive…” “I wrote earlier that we owe the fossil fuel industry an apology for the way we’ve treated it on climate and that we owe them a long-overdue thank you. I meant it.” I am thankful for hot food, hot showers, cold beer, modern medicine and the people that make all of this possible. I’m thankful that Alex Epstein has publicly named the immoral standard by which so many “energy experts” operate. And, I’m thankful that he has stood up to say that life is good, fossil fuels promote life, and so fossil fuels are good. This book can and should be the fulcrum upon which public opinion may swing in the right direction. www.revivingreason.com

This book should be required reading for all educators at all levels of education - especially those teaching in public schools.