The Oil Age Is Over : What to Expect as the World Runs Out of Cheap Oil, 2005-2050

by Matt Savinar

Civilization as we know it is coming to an end soon. This is not the wacky proclamation of a doomsday cult, apocalypse bible prophecy sect, or conspiracy theory society. Rather, it is the scientific conclusion of the best paid, most widely respected geologists, physicists, and investment bankers in the world. These are rational, professional, conservative individuals who are absolutely terrified by a phenomenon known as global "Peak Oil."

Genres: Nonfiction

181 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2004

Reviews

[Sharon Chance · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really liked this book because you get the sense the author is a manic depressive and writing this during his mania phase. It literally predicts the end of the world as we know it, but seemingly in quite an enthusiastic way. It tells us to prepare for the equivalent of a nuclear holocaust and this stuff does appeal if you have spent your entire life feeling as though you are on the edge of whatever society you find yourself in and that its either you or everyone else who has lost the plot. However his predictions are a little off as according to Mr Savinar we should now be currently experiencing major grid blackouts and a whole host of other catastrophes, which will lead us back to the dark ages. I'm not denying the plausability or otherwise but you are left with the impression that some people love a bit of doom and gloom (i'm not immune). Anyway the author has since become an astrologist and has taken down his websites on preparing for peak oil and its aftermath. Either he has had a change of heart, b) can't be arsed either way or c)has been subjected to threats from high above. My guess is probably d) which i didn't think of. My advice just live your life according to your values if you want to change anything for real.

[Tom · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you want to know where you're going, read this book. In The Matrix, one takes a pill, I forget which color (pink?), and then REALITY shows. Well, this book is the pink pill. It's astounding. We are at the edge of a cliff, and if you're wondering why so much bad news is happening at once, read this book. The trick is, not to get depressed. I believe it is possible to face reality full on and with a cheerful attitude. I'm trying hard.

[Roberta · Rating 2 out of 5]

I liked the first half, less the second one. I liked the Q&A style of the book, but I think some of the statements are updated. Still, the currently situation is more or less as predicted by the author. Are we exterminating our own race? Yes, yes we are. Will it happen as fast as stated here? No, we probably bought some more decades.
A fair book overall.

[Alex · Rating 3 out of 5]

savinar is a doomsayer. his collection of facts regarding oil and an imminent peak is impressive. his prediction of everyone starving or running through the streets murdering one another any-day-now, are less impressive.

lack of political understanding, too many mad max movies.