I disagree for three reasons: First, there is a strong economic case that, if an activity harms society as a whole, policies that raise the cost of that activi

I disagree for three reasons: First, there is a strong economic case that, if an activity harms society as a whole, policies that raise the cost of that activity to a level commensurate with that harm are good policies. Second, it has been demonstrated time and again that keeping gas prices low is an ineffective and wasteful way to help the poor. Third, as the price of gas rises the value of older, less efficient cars falls, so buyers of second-hand cars won't be too badly affected. Of course, it's a different matter for those who already own an inefficient car.