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Political science with statistics
Petroleum, being an essential product in the world today, has generated several
misconceptions regarding the major beneficiaries of its proceeds. For instance, whenever there is
a surge in oil prices, consumers often perceive it to be a ploy by the producing nations to increase
their revenues. Primarily, this supposition is based on the idea that prices paid for petroleum
products constitute huge revenues for the producing countries especially the OPEC member
countries (Who Gets What from Imported Oil?). However, while part of the revenue generated is
earned by oil producing countries, the largest proportion constitutes taxes imposed by oilconsuming countries.
Statistics indicate that over 44.9% of revenues generated from sale of petroleum products
are earned by the G7 countries (OECD). Similarly, for the period 2009-2013, OECD countries
earned $1,082 billion annually, which is $115 higher than that earned by OPEC countries.
Besides, the revenues generated by the OPEC countries were inclusive of the costs of exploration
and transportation (Who Gets What from Imported Oil?).
Considering the assumed large oil proceeds, Middle East nations ought to be developed
economies. However, statistics show that the GDP of the countries combined is $2.1617 trillion;
which slightly surpasses Italys GDP of $2.148 trillion (Cia.gov). Also, on average, OPEC
countries have a per capita GDP of $ 13732.42 compared to the G7s GDP per capita of

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$46839.08(Cia.gov). From these facts, it is evident that OPEC countries are not flourishing from
lucrative oil exports as often assumed.
On another note, the disparity may be contributed by other factors such as persistent wars
and corruption. For instance, it is estimated that warfare in the Middle East has cost the region
approximately $12 trillion over the past two decades. Moreover, Middle East nations are known
to harbor millions of foreign immigrants who further strain the available resources and
consequently lower the countries per capita GDP.

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Works Cited
Cia.gov,. 'The World Factbook'. N.p., 2015. Web. 16
Sept.2015.<https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/index.html>
Who Gets What From Imported Oil?. 1st ed. 2014. Web. 16 Sept. 2015..