ABSTRACT
There are many reasons why U.S. energy policy remains in dispute, but at least four underlying problems come to mind in explaining the specific motivations that gave rise to this book and the basis on which its contribution to policy dialog might be judged:
There is disagreement—and even widespread ignorance—about some fundamental facts.
There is great uncertainty about what results the most commonly suggested energy policies might produce.
It is painful to choose between short-term and long-term objectives. What is “best” for most of us this year may make things very unpleasant in 1990—and vice versa.
There is no clear national consensus on what the major long-term goals of U.S. energy policy should be.
