In this fully revised and updated edition, world acclaimed scientist Vaclav Smil reveals everything there is to know about nature's most sought-after resource.

Without oil, there would be no globalisation, no plastic, little transport, and a worldwide political landscape that few would recognise. It is the lifeblood of the modern world, and humanity’s dependence upon it looks set to continue for decades to come. In this topical book, the author of the acclaimed Energy: A Beginner’s Guide, Vaclav Smil, explains all matters related to the ‘black stuff’, from its discovery in the earth right through to the political maelstrom that surrounds it today.

Packed with fascinating facts and insight, Oil: A Beginner’s Guide is unique in bringing together so many different aspects of the oil story. From geology and economics to alternative energy sources once oil has run out, Smil’s comprehensive introduction will fuel dinner party debate, and provide readers with the science and politics behind the world’s most controversial resource.

Oil is the lifeblood of the modern world. Without it, there would be no planes, no plastic, no exotic produce, and a global political landscape few would recognise. Humanity’s dependence upon oil looks set to continue for decades to come, but what is it?

Fully updated and packed with fascinating facts to fuel dinner party debate, Professor Vaclav Smil's Oil: A Beginner's Guide explains all matters related to the ‘black stuff’, from its discovery in the earth right through to the controversy that surrounds it today.