Abstract

Social theories of ignorance try to grapple with ignorance, or even denial, across society. This paper examines the current predicament that society faces from the end of cheap oil, why it hasn't been more widely debated, and why it is generally not considered as a cause for broad-scale concern. It is conjectured that dementia is a useful metaphor for reframing our thinking and understanding of peak oil. In particular, it helps illuminate why this major force, which is likely to shape society for the next few decades, is being largely ignored. The metaphor provides some possibilities for understanding the ways in which the coming energy descent will be experienced by modern societies. Finally, the metaphor highlights some useful beginnings for dealing with our peak oil predicament.