Choking in the Fast Lane

Power Play Series: Part 1

Energy is crucial to the modern world. It makes objects move, it keeps the world running. Without energy we would have little to consume, buy or sell. Most of the energy we consume comes from fossil fuel, coal, natural gas and most important OIL. Choking in the Fast Lane illustrates how the use of oil-base products, particularly gasoline has spiraled since Henry Ford decided his automobile would use this inexpensive by-product of the kerosene-making process. The political, military, and economic interrelationships of oil suppliers and oil consumer countries throughout the last hundred years is emphasized. The rising power and influence of Arabian countries and the current conflicts between them and Western states is illustrated. The program also highlights ecological devastation which can be caused by oil tanker accidents. We also take a brief look at alternatives to our reliance on oil.