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Peak Oil - Value Systems |
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Peak Oil
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Peak oil is interesting because of the test it will
put on people's value systems. Throughout history, value and
belief systems have been based on how people interact with their
environment. Sources of energy have determined the values that
people hold. One scenario for oil depletion describes the strain that the food system will undergo. It is possible that their could be food shortages of a permanent nature as food is no longer shipped from coast to coast or as people no longer can afford to buy scarce food in stores. For those who believe that food is a right and any means necessary to get it are acceptable, the theft of food could become an option, driven by hunger and fear. For others who believe that compassion and non-violence are of high value, developing community systems to ensure an ample supply of food for all is essential. In my opinion, the only way for a community, state, or nation to prosper in the face of natural impacts of declining oil and energy production is for people to come together in communities and to develop systems to provide all of their needs, especially essential needs. In reality, it is most desirable that each person can, without the help of any others, provide for themselves. But history has shown that cooperation in community can help people to go beyond substanence to prosperity. I argue that a value system that is based on compassion, strict non-violence, stewardship, and community is the only one that will be sustainable in the long term, and that we would do well for ourselves to work towards this so we can secure a prosperous future.
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