[D66] Not The Future We Ordered

[René Oudeweg]

give a summary of the book Not The Future We Ordered by Greer
https://students.aiu.edu/submissions/profiles/resources/onlineBook/p5V2M4_Not_the_Future_We_Ordered_Peak_Oil-_Psychology-_and_the_Myth_of_Progress.pdf


Overview

Greer argues that the modern Western worldview is built on the myth of 
perpetual progress — the belief that science, technology, and economic 
growth will always solve problems and deliver a better future. He 
contends that this myth is psychologically comforting but increasingly 
unsustainable in an age of peak oil, ecological limits, and resource 
depletion.

The book blends history, psychology, and energy studies to explain why 
societies cling to failed expectations, and why facing limits provokes 
denial, anger, and despair.

Key Themes & Arguments

1. The Myth of Progress

Progress is not an objective truth but a cultural narrative deeply 
ingrained in modern thought.

This myth emerged in the Enlightenment and industrial era, reinforced by 
centuries of cheap energy and technological success.

It leads people to expect continual improvement, making decline feel 
unthinkable.

2. Peak Oil and Limits to Growth

Industrial society is built on fossil fuels; oil in particular underpins 
transportation, agriculture, and global trade.

As oil production peaks and declines, the assumption of endless growth 
collapses.

Renewable energy, while valuable, cannot fully replicate fossil fuel’s 
abundance and energy density.

3. Psychological Dimensions

Greer emphasizes denial and coping mechanisms.

When expectations of progress fail, individuals and societies respond 
with grief-like stages (denial, anger, bargaining, depression, acceptance).

He draws parallels with addiction recovery: modern society is “addicted” 
to progress.

4. Historical Parallels

Past civilizations also relied on myths to sustain themselves until 
reality forced collapse (e.g., Rome’s myths of eternal empire).

Industrial civilization’s myth of progress functions similarly — 
delaying recognition of limits.

5. Alternative Worldview

Greer calls for replacing the myth of progress with a myth of decline 
and sustainability.

Instead of expecting technological salvation, societies must adapt to 
less energy-intensive lifestyles.

This requires resilience, community-scale solutions, and acceptance of 
cyclical rise and fall, rather than linear progress.

Takeaway Message

Not the Future We Ordered is both diagnosis and warning:

Diagnosis: Our culture clings to progress as a psychological defense, 
making it difficult to acknowledge resource limits.

Warning: Without confronting reality, societies risk destructive denial 
and maladaptive responses.

Greer suggests that cultivating new cultural narratives — of limits, 
resilience, and balance with nature — is essential to navigating the future.