1968notchback.... please explain the record profits of the oil companies that reached into the billions...

 

Hey Bay Area 1968, have you checked out gasoline prices around the world? According to this referenced Wikipedia article, here are some gasoline prices (per gallon, US dollars) around the world:

$5.18 Australia (Melbourne)
$7.64 Belgium (Brussels)
$4.66 Brazil (Sao Paulo)
$4.62 Canada
$8.14 Denmark (Copenhagen)
$7.98 Finland
$8.63 Germany
$4.93 Greece
$7.56 Hong Kong
$7.30 Italy
$8.02 Netherlands
$8.18 United Kingdom

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gasoline_usage_and_pricing

The oil companies are doing a great job of delivering the cheapest gas available anywhere in the developed world. The price of gas and oil products is expensive in America because Americans have an insatiable appetite for oil. We have done nothing to decrease our consumption of gasoline.

The automakers have made huge strides in making better performing and efficient vehicles in the last 25 years. But Americans choose the biggest and most fuel inefficient vehicles. And now everyone is crying because their V10 Ford F250 is only getting 10 mpg?! Or that their Chevy Suburban only gets 12 mpg going 75 mph? People won't even slow down to the speed limit much less buy a more efficient vehicle.

My brother's 1998 Z28 Camaro with the LS1 350will do the 1/4 mile in under 14 seconds and go 158 mph. It will also get better than 25 mpg on the highway (almost 30 if kept under 75). BUT, he doesn't commute everyday in the Z28--he drives an Acura (28 mpg in city driving).

I hate to say this, but too many Americans are stupid.

 

Because they are selling RECORD amounts of their products! Haven't you taken Economics 101?

In a capitalist society, companies are SUPPOSED to make more money if they sell more of their products. Especially if the value of their product is high. Wake up, gasoline is not cheap and you are in denial land if you think that the true price of gasoline is $1.99 a gallon.

 

Not stupid, just selfish and ignorant...

 

I think you could safely apply that to the whole human race. Maybe we need to smarten up!!

Jav

 

I feel so fortunate to be running with such an enlightened group of international scholars.
Especially 68 Notchback, your brilliance radiates through my screen.

But on a serious note, if you thought about what my post actually said while in your enlightened state, you would realize that I have not once complained about gas prices. Maybe I don't like them but they are not affecting my lifestyle yet... But what I don't like more is what Bush has done to my $$$. I don't like to see Chevron raking in that weak $$$ at the expense of every working American. I don't commute in my gas guzzler (I don't commute at all) and I am well aware of the factors that affect gas prices in America. But I really appreciate your lesson in Econ 101. You apparently are not aware of the fact that when only a small minority controls the supply (big oil), that supply can be manipulated to keep demand high. If five Notchback owners want a built 289, and I tell you I only have 4, the price goes up. But what you dont know is that I really have a 5th in the closet that you dont know about... I can sell the 4 for more and the 5th tomorrow. Now explain to me why the oil refineries operate at less than 80% capacity?? Because at 100%, demand would be less, prices would be less, and most importantly... profits would be less. But you do look good with that Chevron hat on.

And yes, I have spent a good deal of time in Europe, driving especially throughout Italy and am well aware of the price of fuel in other parts of the world. Your story telling and babbling on about things we all know and understand showcases your own immaturity. Your ability to copy and paste irrelevant yet selective stats, point fingers, and assume an awful lot about me highlights your own level of intelligence. Say hi to your bro for me, dude.



And baddog, not to beat this one into the ground but you said we were at the lowest unemployment since the 50's. The unemployment rate from 1997 - 2001 was lower than now, and lower than almost every year of the Bush regime. Who was president back then? No, it could not have been a Democrat?? Cheers, bud. Not that you care, but you're all right by me. This is a simple disagreement and I don't want any bad blood. http://www.nidataplus.com/lfeus1.htm

I think Jav probably makes the best point yet on this thread.

 

Bay Area Conspiracy Theorist:

"You apparently are not aware of the fact that when only a small minority controls the supply (big oil), that supply can be manipulated to keep demand high."

HA! HA! HA! HA! LOL!

I think you need to adjust your tin foil helmet!

Please tell the world the identity of the "CONTROLLERS OF THE WORLD OIL SUPPLY." I'm dying to hear your revelations!

Actually, I know who they are--they're a secret society of elite white males who attended Ivy League colleges and belonged to a secret fraternity. This fraternity was satirized in the movie "Animal House."

Oh, I have to go--the Blackhawk helicopters are outside!

 

Wow, I have to admit, that was funny. Ignorance is bliss!!!

 

everyone do me a favor:

look at your URL bar. what does it say after (http://www.) and before (.com)?

ya... thats my opinion...

 

My conspiracy theory is spreading, even reputable news sources agree with me:

http://money.aol.com/news/articles/_...16154209990001
http://abcnews.go.com/GMA/PainAtTheP...ory?id=1997892
http://www.socialistworker.org/2007-...6_Gouged.shtml