Metaphors are an important way to facilitate understanding of new processes. This metaphor is constructed based on the similarity of a rocket’s and civilization’s transition from one stable state to another at a higher level accomplished using a limited supply of fuel. For example, fossil fuels enable the transition from sustainable pre-industrial society to another more advanced sustainable society. However, to realize this potential, society must transition to a sustainable energy supply since fossil fuels are dwindling. A major question is whether this global transition can be completed at the same time that global development continues to improve lifestyles and economic opportunities.
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