With the collision of $4.00 gasoline and a presidential election the public debate over energy policy has reached a new decibel level. Both Barack Obama and John McCain insist that they have the solutions, while their opponent’s positions are naïve and irresponsible. Alas, neither candidate has much to offer about the issue, and much of what our elected officials tell us about energy is simply wrong.
When we visit the doctor, we expect not only deep knowledge of medicine, but also a professional ethic based on the interest of the patient. Unfortunately, our elected officials behave more like used car salesmen – say anything, promise anything, just make the sale. Few people enjoy the experience of buying a car, but it’s manageable if we do our homework, come prepared and avoid relying on the salesman as a source of information
This blog is intended as a source of information for people interested in energy, which of course means everyone. We’ll track the public energy debate and help to sort out fact from fiction. Many of the arguments we’re having are pretty simple. Elementary school arithmetic and high school economics are enough to avoid most of the pitfalls. As I tell my graduate students: Before you decide on a policy, do the math! Unfortunately, most of our political leaders use only one analytical tool: the focus group. If it appeals to voters, say it. This approach is perhaps a good election strategy, but it can cost us trillions in lost economic opportunity.
I hope you enjoy the blog. Comments are always welcome.
Downloads
- Gift of warmth brings a chill: Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez keeping the home fires burning — in Massachusetts. Originally published December 6, 2005
- Iraq doesn't have to become a cliché of oil-wealth excess: Put oil revenues directly into the hands of the citizenry. Christian Science Monitor, September 16, 2003
- Over a Barrel: America is awash in impassioned calls for energy independence.Baltimore Sun, July 2004