This map shows the world with each country’s size in proportion to their share of the worlds oil reserves.
Click for larger image
Unsurprisingly the worlds largest consumers (North America, Europe and China) have very little oil of their own. Looking at the map of the world in this way is interesting since it shows a power relationship other than the one we expect (i.e. we are dependent).
The map can also be seen as containing geopolitical implications – since the “west” is dependent upon oil then the countries with large oil reserves are necessary to maintain our lifestyles. Whether the oil supply is protected through friendly or unfriendly means is just a question of politics.
(via The Sietch Blog)