Arguments in favor of oil as a primary energy source focus on cost and conversion.

In relative terms, oil is usually the most cost effective. You get more energy per unit of cost versus most alternative energy sources. So, moving away from oil technology usually means costs to consumers, [for example taxes either increase gasoline prices or provide subsidies to alternative sources.]

Also, capital investment in oil infrastructure is enormous. Think not just of wells, pipelines, and refineries, but think also of manufacturing plants, gas stations, transporting goods, and power plants.

[Of course, oil is advocated by large corporate interests, but efficiency and conversion costs are more powerful arguments than conspiracy.]

Arguments against oil are longer-term. The cost of climate change does not have the same short-term impact as a hike in prices at the pump. Also, the effects of poll...
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