Analyze a Sociological Issue:
Fossil Fuel Dependency and Americans
SOC 120
University of Phoenix
10/10/10
Throughout this paper we will look at a few of the issues that us as Americans face coming from a dependency in fossil fuels. Just about everything we do in life depends on the use of coal, natural gas, or oil. Although we have found other renewable sources of energy, we have not decreased the use of these non-renewable resources. Even with conservation measures in place, there is still an increasing demand for energy. Without some sort of change there is the possibility of an economic breakdown. There is even the possibility that we could have a food shortage. As most know, most of our oil and natural gas come from other countries. These countries are in the Middle East and most are considered unfriendly. This unfriendliness could have an effect on our national security. Many are concerned about our dependance on these fossil fuels including: politicians, conservationists, and scientists. Even some of the oil companies are concerned as well. Because of industrialization and social change raising our standard of living, we have done nothing more but to become more reliant on the types of energy. In order to make America stronger economically, save the environment, and more secure, we have to end this use of fossil fuels. The next generation of Americans could suffer if we do not do something to change this habit soon. American's are but a small part of the world's population, approximately 5% but we consume 25% of the world's oil (Rubens, 2008). American mainly use this energy source for electricity, transportation, and heating/air conditioning. Just about everything, if not everything, we purchase has some sort of fuel cost to it. Our houses and building use approximately half of the energy for lighting, heating or cooling, and running the appliances. Farmers along with the equipment used for farming, use fossil fuels to produce...