I could see things going back that way too, but the process will be long and painful. Realistically we'll have a small core of wealthy elites and a mass of hungry peasants. Just like it was throughout all history. We didn't to where we are through smarts and technology, it was coal, then oil and gas. When that's gone...
The USA is energy rich in oil, coal, and natural gas --we have natural gas reserves that haven't even been taped in the NE because of a-hole liberal states will not allow it. The USA could be controlling the world market price for these if we would just produce. No shortage for at least 100 yrs. and by then hopefully fusion will be in operation