Publisher Description

Oil is the lifeblood of the modern world. Without it, there would be no planes, no plastic, no exotic produce, and a global political landscape few would recognise. Humanity's dependence upon oil looks set to continue for decades to come, but what is it?Fully updated and packed with fascinating facts to fuel dinner party debate, Professor Vaclav Smil's Oil: A Beginner's Guide explains all matters related to the 'black stuff', from its discovery in the earth right through to the controversy that surrounds it today.

Back Cover

Without oil, there would be no globalisation, no plastic, little transport, and a worldwide political landscape that few would recognise. It is the lifeblood of the modern world, and humanity's dependence upon it looks set to continue for decades to come. In this topical book, the author of the acclaimed Energy: A Beginner's Guide, Vaclav Smil, explains all matters related to the 'black stuff', from its discovery in the earth right through to the political maelstrom that surrounds it today. Packed with fascinating facts and insight, Oil: A Beginner's Guide is unique in bringing together so many different aspects of the oil story. From geology and economics to alternative energy sources once oil has run out, Smil's comprehensive introduction will fuel dinner party debate, and provide readers with the science and politics behind the world's most controversial resource.

Author Biography

Vaclav Smil is Distinguished Professor Emeritus in the Faculty of Environment at the University of Manitoba, Canada. He has written 40 books and nearly 500 papers on energy, environment and technical advances. In 2015 he received the OPEC Award for Research.

Review

'"There is no author whose books I look forward to more than Vaclav Smil" -- Bill Gates
'Smil's...ability to condense so much detail on a broad range of topics from science to economics in such a short work is as impressive as his command of the subject matter.' -- Jason P. Theriot - Energy and Environmental consultant
'In a fluent, easy style [Smil] delves into the world of oil from its discovery on the ground through to its effect on prices at the petrol pumps, and to its impact on future generations.' * The Good Book Guide *
'Everything most people — including most economists and investment advisors — should know about the physics and economics of oil.' * National Post *
'A well-balanced, concise, and readable synthesis of oil-related facts and history.' * Technology and Culture *

Promotional

World acclaimed scientist Vaclav Smil reveals everything there is to know about nature's most sought-after resource

Review Quote

'"There is no author whose books I look forward to more than Vaclav Smil"

Promotional "Headline"

World acclaimed scientist Vaclav Smil reveals everything there is to know about nature's most sought-after resource

Details