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The rhetorical fantasy of energy transitions: implications for energy policy and analysis
journal contribution
posted on 2023-06-08, 23:30 authored by Benjamin SovacoolBenjamin Sovacool, Brent BrossmannThis article explores the rhetoric of four energy transitions. It begins by summarising research on the intersection of fantasy, technology and the sociology of expectation. It then looks at how ideas of progress, modernity, cheapness, abundance and hope influence the way society perceives new energy technologies, causing them to overestimate benefits and underestimate challenges. Our rhetorical analysis finds in case studies of steam engines, gasoline automobiles, hydroelectric dams and nuclear reactors that newly ‘discovered’ sources of energy or newly invented technologies are always assumed to provide infinitely abundant energy and to have the potential to create positive utopian changes in society. We conclude by noting the salient implications of these rhetorical themes for energy planners, analysts and scholars.
History
Publication status
- Published
Journal
Technology Analysis and Strategic ManagementISSN
0953-7325Publisher
Taylor & FrancisExternal DOI
Issue
7Volume
26Page range
837-854Department affiliated with
- SPRU - Science Policy Research Unit Publications
Full text available
- No
Peer reviewed?
- Yes
Legacy Posted Date
2016-01-22Usage metrics
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