#216: Alex Epstein - The Future is Fossil Fuels

Alex Epstein is a philosopher and energy expert who argues that “human flourishing” should be the guiding principle of energy and environmental progress. He is the author of the New York Times bestseller The Moral Case for Fossil Fuels and the forthcoming Fossil Future.  On this episode, Alex and Chris discuss why being against fossil fuels is being against humanity, what happens in a world with fewer fossil fuels, and the impact of alternative energy sources on the world. Alex explains why “Human flourishing“ should be the guiding principle of energy and environmental progress and why driving a Tesla isn’t changing the environment. Enjoy! Follow Chris on Twitter: Follow Chris on LinkedIn: Learn more about Chris Powers & Fort Capital: Follow Fort Capital on LinkedIn: Listen & Subscribe on Spotify: Listen & Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: 00:41 - Why did you get into writing about fossil fuels? 03:41 - How long were fossil fuels viewed positively and when did that change? 11:45 - The Chaos That Ensues When We Don’t Have Machines That Work 18:10 - Russia’s Role in the Current Fossil Fuel Debate 22:06 - Why does the USA think it’s better to outsource oil production rather than produce it at home? 25:03 - Why is the cost of fertilizer and agriculture going up in relation to fossil fuels? 30:04 - The Benefits vs. Risks of Oil and Fossil Fuels 33:55 - What is the opposition’s biggest reasoning for hating fossil fuels? 38:40 - The Hypocrisy of the Biggest Climate Advocates 50:04 - Is there anyone within the left changing their tune on fossil fuels? 52:57 - Thoughts on Elon Musk and Electric Vehicles 58:40 - Who benefits from the green movement being implemented?