This timely investigation examines the energy problem on a global scale. It assesses the role of Saudi Arabian hydrocarbons in underpinning the industrialization of the kingdom's economy, and the economy at large, in light of recent events, which include the emergence of China and India as major economic and political players, the 2003 invasion of Iraq, and the current world financial crisis.
Abdulhadi H. Taher received his PhD in business administration from the University of California, Berkley, in 1964. He has worked in both the public and private sectors of the oil industry.
Michael Matthews has a BSc in economics from the London School of Economics.