ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses general attitudes toward energy production and conservation alternatives, and their relationship to environmental, economic, and societal growth issues. The data presented are based on an analysis of approximately 50 national probability surveys conducted between 1972 and 1979. Findings from a small number of surveys conducted within the first three months following the nuclear power reactor accident at Three Mile Island are compared with trends prior to the accident. It is concluded that there is an indication of a trend toward greater public concern over the pace of economic growth and the related demands for resources and energy. Significant expansion of the energy industry is thus likely to continue to be under close public scrutiny and skepticism. However, the likelihood of the public participating in extensive conservation, which would limit the demand for greater energy production, is at this point quite questionable.
