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  • The Moral Case for Fossil Fuels

  • Written by: Alex Epstein
  • Narrated by: Alex Epstein
  • Length: 6 hrs and 11 mins
  • 4.8 out of 5 stars (94 ratings)

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The Moral Case for Fossil Fuels

Written by: Alex Epstein
Narrated by: Alex Epstein
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Publisher's Summary

For decades environmentalists have told us that using fossil fuels is a self-destructive addiction that will destroy our planet. Yet by every measure of human well-being, from life expectancy to clean water to climate safety, life has been getting better and better. How can this be?

The explanation is that we usually hear only one side of the story. We're taught to think only of the negatives of fossil fuels, their risks and side effects, but not their positives - their unique ability to provide cheap, reliable energy for a world of seven billion people. And the moral significance of cheap, reliable energy is woefully underrated. Energy is our ability to improve every single aspect of life, whether economic or environmental.

If we look at the big picture of fossil fuels compared with the alternatives, the overall impact of using fossil fuels is to make the world a far better place. We are morally obligated to use more fossil fuels for the sake of our economy and our environment.

©2014 Alexander J. Epstein (P)2015 Tantor

What the critics say

"If you want to see the power of fine logic, fine writing, and fine research, read Epstein's book." (Patrick J. Michaels, director, Center for the Study of Science, Cato Institute)

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so many things I never thought of

I loved to see a fresh perspective on this subject. we have been brainwashed by the green movement.

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mind altering, and view shattering

a very well done piece, that has pointed me in a new direction, I recommend anyone with an open mind to listen to this selection.

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Could have used a bit more of a political center-lean

Alex Epstein does a good job of explaining why, through a human centric lens, fossil fuels should be a part of our energy mix and the positive impact they have had so far on human progress.
I think he misses the mark in a few ways:
1. He argues himself around hydro and nuclear as “green” fuels. Hydro and nuclear should both play a significant role in decarbonization.
2. He places essentially all human progress on the back of fossil fuels. Yes they played a large role in giving us capacity, but there are plenty other things you could point at in a similar light.
3. Shifts the lens to “human centric” because it suits the argument well and spends little to no time talking about “impact centric” ideals.


All in all, a well explained moral argument for fossil fuels, but could have used a bit more lean to political center to be more holistic.

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Great topics!

I love the positive angle taken by Mr. Epstein. Gives me hope that the industryisn't. lost!

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This world needs more deeper thinkers like Alex!

A great opposing view of the cliche climate change opinions. We need to remember how important fossil fuels are (good and bad effects included). We should also know what standard we are using to make are opinions and this book helps with that.

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Must read/listen

This is a rational , logical response to people that think fossil fuel is evil.
Cheap energy is what made North America great and we need to allow 3rd world countries the ability to have a similar lifestyle to us.

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  • m&m
  • 2023-01-01

The Irony

The irony sits with the unavoidable fact that everything we enjoy today (goods & services) are systematic of the rise & usage of fossil fuel over time. A balance is needed (honesty).

energy & matter.

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Just plain common sense!

Eric did a great job of presenting the facts on a way that makes sense in a world that thinks virtue signalling is more important than the welfare of the world's poor and needy.

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Mind blown

I’ve been pro fossil fuels for a long while, but still always thought of it as a necessary evil. This book has opened my mind to help me better realise what fossil fuels are, how they help human civilisation and how the “Green” industry might actually be working to kill people and harm the environment.

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exceeded my expectations

literally couldn't put it down. Epstein does a masterful job of simplifying a complex topic in layman's terms. will definitely teach you something.

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