Topic: Asphalt

The Greek discusses the concept of periodic historical resets caused by catastrophes that knock humanity back to a desperate state of survival. He shares an anecdote from a university library regarding a text found in a Libyan garbage dump about an ancient Greek man with a "horseless wagon" that spit fire and smoke. He also notes that future visitors would find our modern use of asphalt more confusing than the internet or airplanes.

The early 20th century featured a variety of viable transportation technologies, including Riker electric vehicles and Stanley Steamers, which were marginalized by the oil monopoly. Price explains that asphalt roads were chosen specifically because they are a petroleum byproduct that requires constant maintenance, creating an "evergreen clause" for the industry. He also claims that refineries could easily convert gasoline to methanol to increase efficiency but refuse to do so to maintain high consumption levels.