Book Reviews

The Oracle of Oil: Review

M King Hubbert, known as 'the father of peak oil,' was one of the first to question unlimited economic growth. "In his life and career you find the seeds of major environmental, socioeconomic and political challenges which we are still confronted with today, and which still need solving," writes Jacqueline Mathewes in this review of Mason Inman's biography.

Fantasies of “Socialism with an iPad”?: Inventing the Future by Nick Srnicek and Alex Williams: Review

"Sometimes you read a book that helps to crystalize your thinking, not because you agree with it, but because you don't" writes Brian Davey, who goes on to challenge the authors' assumptions about the availability of renewable energy and the nature and potential of localism.

Shale Gas and Fracking: The science behind the controversy – review by Brian Davey

Brian Davey writes "the central theme of this book - that 'science can be allowed to decide through peer reviewed debate' - is at best innocent in the naive sense, pious and misleading. It evokes a world where issues are decided on by politicians and the public guided by neutral scientists who deliver the facts. But this fairy tale for the children begs all the difficult questions."