As always, great insight. Another example of government programs creating a negative, or opposite effect from their intent is the CAFE standards. The CAFE regulation was originally instituted in the early 70's to help lessen our dependance on foreign oil (which, at the time, the US was improting 35% of its oil). Instead, we now import upwards of 60% of our oil from the middle east. So, instead of lessening our dependance on foreign oil, the CAFE regulation has had the opposite effect. Today, the reason for increasing the CAFE standard is the environment, however the result will be the same: more fuel efficient vehicles = more people buying vehicles = necessity for more oil and thus, higher pollutants. Its a virtuous cycle (the same effect as "lower prices driving more volume creating lower prices driving more volume, etc."). Its history, yet some/most of the beauracratics in Washington refuse to learn these lessons. Luckily, a training system is in place for those of us willing to make this country and better place. Our work is cut out for us.