Petroleum Prices

 

America and Energy Resources on the Occasion of Russia's Invasion of Ukraine

The rising gas prices and many reactions seems self-centered and shortsighted.  When a tyrannical country invades a neighbor, causing war and sanctions, resulting in shortages and increased prices at the gas pump, is it too much to ask for us to support defense of democracy and peace with paying more out of our own pocket?  Prayers for Ukraine should not be free platitudes but should actually cost something.  Obviously, many people are paying with their entire lives in Ukraine as we complain about higher prices.

Another issue that rising gas prices bring up are attitudes toward the environment and climate change.  Energy independence is touted as the reason to lessen environmental controls, increase drilling in sensitive areas and allow greater greenhouse gas emissions.  If a person does not believe in protecting the planet and preserving it for generations to come, then a wide-open extraction and unfettered consumption may be appropriate.  Otherwise, we can afford rising energy costs, while at the same time pursuing energy independence with the sun and wind that this country has been graced with.

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