"I think you have your wish, because that is exactly what is happening now, in spite of "defending" our one-trick economy by plundering oil". Except that when its price truly gets out of reach, half the population will be dead from starvation (need oil to grow, transport and distibute food, don'cha know?)" I think 1/2 is a lofty and unscientific number. Europe has been charging its citizens more than DOUBLE what we pay now for more than a decade. They found a way to cope - perhaps reapportioning federal funds AWAY from military and TOWARDS education, research, and crazy services like health care would be a place to start. And, from a selfish standpoint, if we were going to gain anything from this war - where are those gains now? Unless you own a no bid security firm, you aren't gaining anyhing.