Also, Econ 101 is essentially a naïve exercise in optimizing price-demand curves (find where f'(x) = 0), which assumes prices always converge on a supply-demand

Also, Econ 101 is essentially a naïve exercise in optimizing price-demand curves (find where f'(x) = 0), which assumes prices always converge on a supply-demand equilibrium point. Another model, found in utilities, fixes the cost point, so when demand falls, prices rise. Did you ever buy into your electric company's "conservation program" and cut your consumption, only to have your rates rise? Congrats, you just got rick-rolled by capitalism, comrade sucker.