Alex Epstein, an energy theorist and founder of the Center for Industrial Progress, advocates for the benefits of fossil fuels in enhancing human flourishing. He challenges the negative perceptions of fossil fuels, arguing that solar and wind cannot meet energy demands reliably. Epstein critiques climate change activism, claiming it undermines technological progress and human innovation. He discusses the importance of nuclear energy and warns against the dangers of overly restrictive energy policies, emphasizing that responsible fossil fuel use can lead to better environmental outcomes.
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insights INSIGHT
Climate Change as a Side Effect
Think of climate change as a side effect of fossil fuel use, just like evaluating benefits and side effects of medicine.
Consider the benefits of fossil fuels that neutralize climate danger, such as energy for machines that alleviate drought.
insights INSIGHT
Nature's True Nature
Nature is not a delicate balance, but rather deficient, dangerous, and dynamic.
Machines powered by non-human energy sources are key to human flourishing and a stable, comfortable life.
insights INSIGHT
Energy and Well-being
Cost-effective energy is crucial for powering machines, which are essential for human well-being.
The more cost-effective machine labor becomes, through cheaper energy, the more accessible life-improving machines become.
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In this book, Toby Ord argues that humanity is in a uniquely dangerous period, which he terms 'the Precipice,' beginning with the first atomic bomb test in 1945. Ord examines various existential risks, including natural and anthropogenic threats, and estimates that there is a one in six chance of humanity suffering an existential catastrophe within the next 100 years. He advocates for a major reorientation in how we see the world and our role in it, emphasizing the need for collective action to minimize these risks and ensure a safe future for humanity. The book integrates insights from multiple disciplines, including physics, biology, earth science, computer science, history, anthropology, statistics, international relations, and moral philosophy[1][3][5].
Fossil Futures
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Alex Epstein
Alex Epstein's "Fossil Fuels" delves into the crucial role of fossil fuels in human civilization. Epstein challenges the prevailing narrative surrounding climate change, arguing that fossil fuels have been instrumental in improving living standards and reducing poverty globally. He emphasizes the importance of energy abundance and its impact on various aspects of society, from economic growth to technological advancements. The book provides a comprehensive analysis of energy production and consumption, advocating for a balanced approach that considers both environmental concerns and the benefits of fossil fuels. Epstein's work has sparked significant debate and discussion within the energy sector and beyond.
The New Left
The Anti-Industrial Revolution
Ayn Rand
In this collection of essays, Ayn Rand critiques the New Left, viewing its ideology as a form of irrational collectivism that undermines industrial progress and rational society. The book argues that the New Left's emphasis on feelings over reason and its rejection of industrial achievements are harmful to societal advancement. Originally published in 1971, it was later expanded and re-titled *Return of the Primitive: The Anti-Industrial Revolution* in 1999.
The Moral Case for Fossil Fuels
Alexander Joseph Epstein
In this book, Alex Epstein presents a case for the moral justification of using fossil fuels, arguing that they are essential for human progress and well-being. Epstein challenges the prevailing views on climate change and energy policy, suggesting that the benefits of fossil fuels, such as providing low-cost and reliable energy, outweigh their negative impacts. He advocates for a 'human flourishing' framework, emphasizing the role of fossil fuels in reducing global poverty and improving living standards[1][3][5].
Alex Epstein is an energy theorist, the founder and president of the Center for Industrial Progress and an author.
During any discussion about fossil fuels, the focus only ever seems to be on the negative side effects, but what about the positives? Alex believes that we need more, not less fossil fuels to improve global human flourishing, and today he makes his case.
Expect to learn why solar & wind energy can't fix our energy problems, how nuclear plants have become so demonised, why Alex thinks that climate change activists fundamentally hate humanity, his views on Extinction Rebellion, why fossil fuels reduce environmental catastrophes and much more...
Modern Wisdom 
