The Consequences of the Global Energy Race

TomDispatch has posted a worrisome essay by Michael Klare about "The Global Energy Race and Its Consequences." He suggests the Pentagon is becoming a "global oil-protection service." Here's a quote that provides an explanation:

A growing number of energy experts believe that the global output of "conventional" (liquid) crude oil will soon reach a peak -- perhaps as early as 2010 or 2015 -- and then begin an irreversible decline. If this proves to be the case, no amount of inputs from Canadian tar sands, shale oil, or other "unconventional" sources will prevent a catastrophic liquid-fuel shortage in a decade or so, producing widespread economic trauma. The global supply of other primary fuels, including natural gas, coal, and uranium is not expected to contract as rapidly, but all of these materials are finite, and will eventually become scarce.