Oil Crises and Policy Continuity: A History of Failure to Change

Despite many dramatic shocks over time, America's reliance on oil and other fossil fuels remains largely undiminished. Why has there been so little change, and what does this tell us about both our energy policies and the role that shocks have played in forming U.S. energy policy? To answer these questions, we first seek to provide a detailed historical and political account of major shocks to oil policy. On the basis of these accounts, we suggest several possible lessons for policy research. In particular, we suggest that the first shock to a policy system generates the greatest potential for change. Having weathered the initial storm, entrenched interests may find it easier, not more difficult, to take on the challenges of future crises. We would also point out the regularity for which long-term environmental concerns are often displaced politically by short-term economic interests. Adapted from the source document.