The Energy Reader presents a series of readings that examine the energy problem from an anthropological perspective and look at energy holistically, including social and cultural components and long term implications for global and social environmental change.

* Brings a unique critical approach to the problem of energy and its complexity

* Presents the topic as both a human and a technological problem, differentiating long-term perspectives from short term fixes

* Includes coverage of the politics of energy, the protection of future generations, the avoidance of dangerous waste products, efficiency, resilience, and democratic relevance

* Features selections drawn from the work of physicists, economists, business experts, engineers, journalists, historians, and entrepreneurs