Reference no: EM131659151

Assume that the United States faces a serious energy crisis. Turmoil in the Middle East has disrupted that supply and domestic reserves have been seriously depleted. Gas prices have risen to $10 a gallon. As a result the country has sunk into a deep recession. The largest known reserves of oil in the US lie beneath the Indian lands described in this scenario; developing these resources would likely have a significant impact on the price of gasoline and help restore the nation's prosperity. The tribal leaders steadfastly refuse to allow drilling, insisting that the land is sacred and must not be disturbed. Should the US government or private oil companies have the power to develop these resources without the tribal leaders' permission? Explain your answer.