An Energy-Deficient Society

Abstract

With the rapidly growing worldwide consumption of energy and the recognition of the finite supply of energy resources, we hear more and more about conservation, about a low-energy-use society, a reduced life-style, and a no-growth society. The U.S. is often cited as the worst offender of these concepts with its gas-guzzling automobiles, its poorly insulated buildings, its climatically controlled, windowless skyscrapers, and its alleged inclination for frivolous uses, such as electric toothbrushes, electric can openers, and air conditioning. Sweden is held as the model of a modern industrial society utilizing half the per capita consumption of energy.