Are alternative energy sources necessary? Peaks in global oil production rates are imminent / David Strahan ; Peaks in global oil production rates will not be reached for many years / Michael Lynch ; Energy independence is a reachable goal / George Allen ; Energy independence is a myth / Robert Bryce -- What alternative energy sources should be pursued? Clean coal can supply U.S. energy needs / Gregory H. Boyce ; Clean coal doesn't exist / Kari Lydersen ; Plants used in manufacturing biofuels can be cultivated on unused lands / Paul Bardos et al. ; Biofuel cultivation will harm the environment and marginalize populations / Helena Paul ; Renewable energy sources can meet America's energy demands / Chris Flavin and Janet Sawin ; Renewable energy sources cannot meet America's energy demands / William Tucker -- Should alternatives to gasoline-powered vehicles be pursued? Ethanol takes food from the hungry to use as fuel / Donnie Johnston ; Ethanol does not use food for fuel / Tom Daschle ; Biodiesel will reduce oil dependence and greenhouse gas emissions / Fuel Oil News ; Biodiesel will not significantly reduce oil dependence / Max Schulz -- What should be the government's role in advancing alternative energy? Government investment is necessary to further develop alternative energy / Steven Chu ; Government programs would be ineffective at developing alternative energy / Ed Hiserodt ; The government should subsidize the creation of green jobs / Melissa Bradley-Burns ; The government should not subsidize the creation of green jobs / Institute for Energy Research ; It is unclear whether President Obama's energy policies go far enough to save the planet / Carl Etnier ; President Obama's energy policies will be costly for the American public / William P. Hoar.