Thomas Friedman's Science Project

Thomas Friedman has an opinion on how to reverse "the steady erosion of science, math and engineering education in U.S. high schools", as a basis for "a national science project" that would lead to U.S. energy independence in 10 years and thus "force Iran, Russia, Venezuela and Saudi Arabia to take the path of reform"; which they won't do "when we tell them they should". It was published in last Sunday's New York Times (December 5, 2004).

I am of a different opinion. I agree that the U.S. has the material capacity to achieve the degree of energy independence needed within that time. Some of his examples to show that these "worst governments in the world" have behaved more reasonably when the demand for, and price of, oil fell may also make sense. That other effects he cites would be beneficial - "reduce global warming", and "dry up revenue for terrorism" or "inspire young people" - few would take exception to. Other things do not make sense.

Rather than trying to argue here with all those, it may be preferable first to just wonder whether Friedman has really taken account of all the main powers that have profited from the recent high price of oil. The big oil companies with associated interests (power companies, banks) and their lobbies also may not like such a loss of profits. And they have more power than he may be aware of, or expect his paper to take on.