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Public confidence and energy

Journal Article · · Ed. Res. Rep. (Wash., D.C.); (United States)
OSTI ID:6012385

The American public, in spite of Administration warnings and media attention, remains convinced that the energy situation is not serious and that traditional American know-how will prevail. The author reviews public and governmental reactions to recent shortages and events, such as the Three Mile Island accident, in terms of credibility problems. The effort to communicate a sense of urgency to the public increased after the 1973 to 1974 Arab oil embargo and has continued through the Nixon--Ford Project Independence, Carter's National Energy Plan, and the growing distrust of oil companies. Americans, in spite of their skepticism, have become more energy-conscious and have taken steps to conserve energy. Industry and government have also initiated conservation programs in response to increasing energy costs. Congress, however, is still reluctant to adopt Carter's plan for phased price decontrol, windfall taxes, or emergency fuel rationing. 12 references.

OSTI ID:
6012385
Journal Information:
Ed. Res. Rep. (Wash., D.C.); (United States), Journal Name: Ed. Res. Rep. (Wash., D.C.); (United States) Vol. 1:20; ISSN EDRRA
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English