So what would OPEC countries be doing while a case is drawn up against them by the US -- an embargo maybe? Oil is a little bit more of a strategic resource than are vitamins. Then there is the fact western oil companies also make money when OPEC pushes up oil prices. Why do you think this has not been attempted before.

And as Noah points out, such an attempt against OPEC would be most feasible when oil prices are low. When is that going to be, Sherlock?

If RHC were serious about breaking OPEC, then she would be talking about alternative energy initiatives. But because the Clinton family has nuzzled up to the Bushes -- an oil family if there ever was one, and in bed with the Saudis no less -- she would never consider undercutting her big-oil financial supporters.

Perhaps Noah's point is a theoretical one, but practically speaking, it is a non-starter until the US gets off its oil habit.