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Hydrocarbons and the evolution of human culture

Author

Listed:
  • Charles Hall

    (State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry
    Flathead Lake Biological Station, University of Montana)

  • Pradeep Tharakan

    (State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry
    Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs, Syracuse University)

  • John Hallock

    (State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry)

  • Cutler Cleveland

    (Center for Energy and Environmental Studies, Boston University
    Department of Geography at Boston University)

  • Michael Jefferson

    (Global Energy & Environmental Consultants, The Old Stables)

Abstract

Most of the progress in human culture has required the exploitation of energy resources. About 100 years ago, the major source of energy shifted from recent solar to fossil hydrocarbons, including liquid and gaseous petroleum. Technology has generally led to a greater use of hydrocarbon fuels for most human activities, making civilization vulnerable to decreases in supply. At this time our knowledge is not sufficient for us to choose between the different estimates of, for example, resources of conventional oil.

Suggested Citation

  • Charles Hall & Pradeep Tharakan & John Hallock & Cutler Cleveland & Michael Jefferson, 2003. "Hydrocarbons and the evolution of human culture," Nature, Nature, vol. 426(6964), pages 318-322, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:nature:v:426:y:2003:i:6964:d:10.1038_nature02130
    DOI: 10.1038/nature02130
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