Mojave, I believe that what you imply, is completely plausible, and realistically, could be an accurate view of our future. The stores we buy our food in, are beyond what people living on this earth, a few hundred years ago or less, could have dreamed of. We have enjoyed, a mezmerizing, plenty of " energy " for our bodies , and have grown fat and happy on it. But an abundance, of an easily availible energy source, has provided for this cornucopia of nutrition, and as this SOURCE disappears, things will become very differant, IMHO. I want to thank you Mojave, for sharing your information about this book, The Long Emergency. I am currently reading it, and so far, I am very impressed by its thoughtful content. In considering the future for humanity, there are many visions of what will be. Some " believe " that we face dire prospects, a world of serious declines in our quality of life, and worse. Some " believe " that humans will rise to the challenge of what faces them with creativity and adaptability, and we will solve any problems that come along. The points of view are as diverse as we are as people. The future that is coming, will show clearly, the truth, in these matters. I am hopeful that humankind will find real solutions to these very serious problems, but based on history, I am not confident of this prospect, in consideration of, what my life experience has shown me.