The powers that be : global energy for the twenty-first century and beyond /

The Powers That Be is an unconventional, lucid, pragmatic, and thought-provoking discussion of the present global energy situation. The book is written in plain language by a knowledgeable source whose perspective from academia and industry brings new clarity and insights to the table, especially in terms of realistically assessing what is known and not known about how much any energy source, carbon based or not, is likely to deliver in the foreseeable future. Of particular note are the surprising discussions that geologist/scholar/writer Montgomery (Science in Translation, CH, Dec'00, 382127; The Moon and the Western Imagination, CH, Feb'00, 37-3331, etc.) provides on how reserves of oil, natural gas, and other energy resources are calculated and reported. In this regard and in terms of the holistic account that combines resource analysis with geopolitical, technological, and climate considerations/impacts, this book stands alone above all other energy books flooding the market. Production values are good, and the writing style holds the reader's attention, making this a solid, informative contribution to the new energy literature. Summing Up: Highly recommended. All academic, general, and professional readers. B. Ransom formerly, University of California, San Diego