"sd" > wrote:
> To your way of thinking, it would be okay if petroleum companies start
> declaring that, henceforth, "gallons" of gasoline are now only 100
> ounces because that way they can keep the price per "gallon" (the way
> people in the U.S. are used to buying gasoline) at an "attractive"
> $1.99. Why do I get the feeling that you wouldn't be very happy about
> that (not that you would be alone)?

I was thinking of precisely the same example... the new, more convenience
sized gallon of gas! ;-)

Actually, what I'd be more worried about is if the gas stations adopted the
airline pricing model. If you absolutely, positively have to travel, you are
really going to pay. There is better than a 10 to 1 price difference between
advance purchase discount tickets and full fare coach on a lot of flights. I
can see this pricing model as applied to gas stations. They would inspect
your gas gauge when you entered the station... if it reads 1/2 tank, the
price is $1.90/gal. If it reads 3/4, the price is $1.00/gal. If 7/8 it's
$0.50/gal. And if it reads full, it's $0.25/gal. But heaven help you if you
really need it. If it reads 1/4 it's $4.00/gal and if it reads empty, it's
$25.00/gal. I'm glad the "traditional carriers" who grew so adept at
screwing the public with this kind of pricing model are now paying their
due. I hope they all go under.

Just speaking as someone who remembers very clearly the 1974 and 1979 gas
crises... and who had to park his car at noon and wait until 4 PM when the
stations reopened.