The Wall Street Journal-20080131-Bunker Mentality Redux- Bury the Gold- Plant Yams

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Bunker Mentality Redux: Bury the Gold, Plant Yams

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Regarding "In a World Short of Oil, Provisions Must Be Made" (page one, Jan. 26), the fearful Aaron Wissner should be commended for his efforts to plan for the future, but I would also like to point out the shortsightedness of his plan. If he really believes in peak oil and a looming oil shock he should realize that selling his house and moving to the woods is not going to secure his future. If oil-dependent economies "crumble" and resource wars "explode," how does he propose to protect this little plot of land in the woods?

The aftermath of Hurricane Katrina demonstrated how quickly lawlessness can erupt in civilized societies given the right catalyst. If the economy crumbles, does he believe that an unpaid police force and military will continue to protect the yams in his garden? He might want to consider putting up some No Trespassing signs to keep out the roving bands of marauders that would form in such a lawless state. I'm sure that this would deter thieves from stealing his crops and stash of gold.

Mike Pearson

San Clemente, Calif.