by k_semler » Tue 15 Jun 2004, 06:28:27
It depends on what personality type your neighbor is, as classifying all people under one blanket statement is very inaccurate at best. However, if the person in question has a habit of blaming others for his/her problems, then they will likely find you a scapegoat regarding thier troubles. However, even if you do alert them to the condition known as peak oil, chances are that you will simply be passed up on as a conspiracy theorist, or a strange environmentalist. The best option for "neighborly" relations is simply not letting them know about this issue unless they wish to bring up the issue themselves, or if you can gradually ease them into it. A good way to do this is to start off with just the basic facts first once you get a realization of where they stand on this issue.
A good way to start on a conversation is simply to ask them what thier opinion is regarding Peak Oil. If they do not know what Peak Oil is, simply tell them that it is a theory stating that global oil production will eventually reach a level of maximum output, and this will correspond to the halfway point in depletion of world oil reserves. Let them know about Hubbert's Peak, and the work that Marion King Hubbert performed during his lifetime. Simply state the bare facts that are provable at this point, such as mathematical formulas, global petroleum analysis, and respected organizational material such as the work by the IEA and USGS. If they doubt your news, it will be very simple for them to verify the accuracy themselves.
If they are not interested, simply do not peruse the subject further. If they are interested in Peak Oil Theory, the person in question will eventually seek to find out more information from you regarding the issue, or will do thier own research regarding the matter. I suggest you recommend a few sites if they are interested in the subject at hand. I would not suggest introducing them to the potential of a massive die-off until the party has gotten a grasp of the severity of the peak oil situation. If you must bring it up, only mention the biological phenomenons known as Overshoot, and sustainability. Easter Island would be a good example of this, as would bacteria in a Petri dish.
Here Lies the United States Of America.
July 04, 1776 - June 23 2005
Epitaph: "The Experiment Is Over."
Rest In Peace.
Eminent Domain Was The Murderer.