[thackney]

The fact is the American people aren't even close to slowing down consumption, regardless of the prices.

That is not a fact, nor true. Changes are being made. Have you made no changes in how you view fuel consumption as you did two years ago? Will fuel economy be a bigger part of your decision to purchase your next car?

I created the following chart from the data at Energy Information Administration, U.S. Gasoline Supplied. The blue is the actual amount, the purple is a running average to make trends easier to see. Even with our growing economy, demand has diminished. I combine more trips and plan my week better than I used to; don't you do the same?

[beeler]

Your chart shows that consumption has generally increased (with expected dips and spikes here and there). I do indeed limit my consumption but the vast majority of Americans don't. Furthermore, I don't bitch about gas prices. I would be willing to bet that the most vocal complainers are also the biggest consumers. Americans haven't understood market economics for years.