Should petroleum and energy be rationed to tamp down on escalating costs/prices? Would a black market make rationing impractical?

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BlueVeins · 22-25

It just doesn't seem like it would solve much, enforcement costs would be a problem and the last one to the pump would lose. High oil prices suck, but at least they're effective at rationing limited resources by incentivizing people and systems to use less when possible. Sucks that the poor are hit hardest under this paradigm, but they'd arguably be in an even worse position if they couldn't reliably access the stuff. :\

ViciDraco · 41-45, M

@BlueVeins I will say I'm fairly happy I chose a plugin hybrid last time I had to get a new car. And my office lets me charge it for free with gets me there and back.

MarkPaul · 26-30, M

@BlueVeins Rationing in the sense that everyone gets a set allotment and no more. So, no one would lose in that regard. The question is if a "black market" would then allow those with connections, power, and/or influence could get more than their allotment.

ViciDraco · 41-45, M

@MarkPaul let's be honest, the US government will create tiered rationing systems where the rich get far more and the poor get far less.

MarkPaul · 26-30, M

@ViciDraco Well, that would be a downside of such a plan with exemptions, special considerations, etc. It truly does make the idea impractical, but I still wonder if it COULD work with proper oversight and sincere effort.