Gouging ...I mean capitalism.

The first time I bought gas for myself was six years ago. I paid under $2.00 it. Today, if I drive by a station advertising gasoline for $3.95 I think I've got myself a deal. In the past few years, we have been conditioned, and yes, brainwashed to think that fuel for under $4 is a steal. We're shocked when it goes up a dime a day for an entire week. Then, it only comes down two of those dimes and we're relieved. Sneaky.
However, now we've got more to worry about than just prices. How about the problem of finding gas? Finding fuel is currently like a time bomb game of "Where's Waldo." You're driving around and around gas stations, only finding pumps covered by annoying, cheap plastic bags while you're sweating over that orange light that seems to stay on on your dash. You finally find gasoline, only to wait behind man kind's finest specimens, also waiting. What is it about a crisis that brings out the worst in people? After hearing horror stories from the pump, I am literally scared to try to get gas.
Due to hurricane season, Bloomberg.com reports that at least 46 million barrels of motor fuel output were lost from August 30 to September 19. By the way, the United States consumes over 20 million barrels of oil a day. (CIA World Factbook) So what happens if we completely run out? We need to address that problem before it becomes reality. A solution: price gouging ...or capitalism if you want the term to come with a little more authority.
Face it, as long as prices are within our range, we will all keep filling our tanks as often as we can. I am personally not prepared to pay any more than I have to at the pump, but for conservation sake, I think it could be worth it. The decline in gas purchases may even inspire some to stay home or plan trips more carefully. It will eliminate waste. Sure, everyone will be furious, devestated, and any other dramatic term we can think of, but in a long term view, price gouging, I mean capitalism, would be beneficial for our situation. So, in the meantime, suck it up and meet those charming people in the 15 cars behind you.