Hacker Newsnew | past | comments | ask | show | jobs | submitlogin

It does, though. Refusing to assist with the destruction of our planet slows down the destruction of our planet. Why would I want to work to make these companies more effective?


Because when they're ineffective oil gets spilled. We have a vested interest in oil being produced as cleanly and effectively as possible until we can lessen our dependence on it.

Furthermore, the OPEC countries don't care at all and will happily sell you oil at a nice markup if Shell and Exxon can't.


This is the same argument in favor of building oil pipelines, because they spill less oil per mile than trucks or trains. It ignores second-order effects that is, since it's cheaper for the oil companies to operate, they'll produce even more oil than they otherwise would have. And we want them to produce less oil. Preferably none.


> they'll produce even more oil than they otherwise would have.

The production of oil is not the problem. They produce oil because we, as a society, have placed tremendous value on it. Once we no longer need oil they'll stop producing it.


Oil companies expend a ton of resources ensuring societies continue to buy & rely on their products.




Guidelines | FAQ | Lists | API | Security | Legal | Apply to YC | Contact

Search: