ABSTRACT
There are in the literature on global energy basically two views on the global energy problems: the optimistic view following the principle of relative scarcity and market resilience; and the pessimistic view targeting the grossly unequal distribution of energy among the countries of the world. This chapter analyzes the confrontation between these two perspectives upon global energy. Fission energy is a much more effective power source than chemical energy derived from burning fossil fuel. Alternative or renewable energy sources plus energy conservation cannot support the industrial society mankind has at present, especially in view of the difficulties concerning solar power and hydroelectricity. The Julian Simon principle entails that the dynamic interaction between supply and demand gives rise to substitution of scarce materials when scarcity looms. The chapter underlines the seriousness of the energy problem and discusses the implications of the search for new major energy source hydrogen - for the economic and social systems of the world.
