Book Review: The Moral Case for Fossil Fuels - An African Perspective on Energy, Survival, and Development
After reading Alex Epstein’s "The Moral Case for Fossil Fuels" (2014), I was inspired to write a book review. The review engages with Epstein's arguments while offering my own perspectives on climate change, sustainability, and energy security. Epstein boldly defends fossil fuels as a moral good for human flourishing. This view resonated with me, especially in the context of Sub-Saharan Africa’s urgent need for a lot of energy to drive development and lift millions out of poverty. Epstein mainly addresses European and American audiences, so I expanded the conversation to include Africa’s unique challenges and opportunities. Though Epstein does not explicitly endorse nuclear energy, my review explores the potential of nuclear energy, the limitations of renewables, and the ethical imperative to prioritize human well-being over abstract environmental ideals. This review bridges Epstein’s ideas with the realities of Africa, offering a nuanced perspective on how the continent can navigate the complex relationship between energy access, climate resilience, and sustainable development.
Feb 9, 2025
