The argument is not the righteousness of the past, the argument is opportunity cost. Yes, in the past, we burnt coal. We drilled oil, and we cleared land. This may have had significant environmental effects, but they also have significant social benefits. The draining of marshes alleviated malaria risk areas, the clearing of forests stimulated urban growth and subsequently cultural growth.

Moreover, consider why China and India refuse to ratify Kyoto. They know solar tech and wind tech wont power steel mills or generate enough electricity at a reasonable economic price, these immature technologies are unproven and unreliable. What coal and oil have proven however is that they stimulate economic growth, they are based on reliable, mature technologies. Fossil fuels are not burnt because of what could happen, they are burnt because of what has happened, and what has worked.