The fossil fuel revolution: A great, and largely unrecognized, experiment

Humanity is living through a great experiment, the Industrial Revolution. Since it is based on the use of fossil fuels, "Fossil Fuel Revolution" (FFR) might be a better designation. Because fossil fuels are non-renewable, the FFR cannot long continue without a switch to renewable energy sources, but it is not definitely known that this is possible. I attempt to clarify our future energy choices, and the areas of scientific uncertainty. Besides the long-term problem of developing renewable energy supplies for the overall economy, three issues are presenting themselves now: the likely fast-approaching end of cheap oil, with limited substitutes appropriate for vehicles; the possibility that future increases in agricultural yields may be constrained; and the vulnerability to collapse of a globalized, highly interconnected economy. Some general implications are discussed.