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Dec 6 2012

Will we reach peak oil?

37 min 3 movies discussed
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A 2012 report showed that the U.S. may be energy-independent in just a few years, but not too long ago the specter of peak oil loomed large on the political and economic landscape. Join Chuck and Josh as they visit the consequences of running out of oil.

AI Summary

In this Stuff You Should Know episode, Josh and Chuck dive into the concept of peak oil - the point when global oil production can no longer keep up with demand. They explore M. King Hubbard's famous curve that predicted this phenomenon, examining both the alarming predictions from peak oil believers and the more optimistic assessments from energy companies who say we have plenty of reserves left. The guys break down the complex factors affecting when this might happen, from alternative energy developments to new oil discoveries, while discussing what could be catastrophic consequences if we're not prepared.


Movies Discussed

Dancing with the Stars
Dancing with the Stars
2005
★ 6.1
"Just shut up and watch Dancing with the Stars — Josh sarcastically references the show when describing how oil companies tell people not to worry about peak oil concerns." — Josh
Mad Max
Mad Max
1979 1h 31m
★ 6.7
"I got two words for you. Mad Max — Josh references the post-apocalyptic film series when discussing what a catastrophic global energy shortfall might look like." — Josh
There Will Be Blood
There Will Be Blood
2007 2h 38m
★ 8.1
"if you watch like There Will Be Blood, I think those early oil guys — Chuck uses the film as an example of early oil extraction methods where companies would tap just the top 10% of oil reserves cheaply before moving on." — Chuck

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