Another of my contrarian views:
Gas is still remarkably cheap, considering how difficult and dangerous it is to produce. Milk, for example, is more expensive, but much, much easier to produce. Why don't we hear about milk strikes?
Visit Europe and try $9 a gallon.
Exxon/Mobile and etc. are making huge profits because they're huge companies. On a return-on-investment basis, they aren't out of line at all. If you think their profits are enormous, become an owner - buy some of their stock. Not only will you make money, but you can go to the stockholders meetings and speak directly with the officers and directors.
The era of unlimited cheap gas is over. We'd better get used to it. It will no longer be painless to drive SUV's to the health club so we can walk on treadmills, or to buy strawberries and lettuce from thousands of miles away. Here are some positive suggestions:
Walk, ride a bike, combine trips, drive efficient vehicles. Don't buy petroleum-based plastic junk you don't need. Heat with wood. Wear a sweater. Plant a garden. Keep a few hens.