Why cheap gasoline is the best thing for America

(This is a counterpoint to our previous story: Why cheap gasoline is bad for America — Ed.)

Do you remember when gas was cheap? Every single year I pass by a landmark that reminds me of those wonderful days of not too long ago.

There is this old abandoned station I see on my family's annual trip to Myrtle Beach. It's an abandoned gas station from the Y2K era, and the prices for unleaded gas back then read out like a financial hallucination compared to today: $0.99 regular, $1.09 mid-grade, $1.19 premium

I am in love with the old gas sign on that building just because those three numbers remind me of a time when it wasn't so hard to make ends meet.

Gas was cheap. Used cars were fairly reasonable for those starting out, and everything from the price of food to the cost of a public education seemed to be quite doable for my young family.

Now, I fear for the monetary pitfalls my children may face in this brave new world where too many folks are lead to believe that legalized oil cartels and government tax policies should dictate gas prices. Sometimes it seems like I am visiting a parallel universe where inflation and a lack of mobility are actually seen as a good thing.

So let me just come out and say it.

"Cheap gas prices are the absolute best thing that could ever happen to our country, our civilization, and probably our planet in the long-run."

Let me explain why:

Cheap Gas Makes It Easier To Transport, Travel... And Innovate

This is as true for 20-somethings who want to commute to a nearby college and pursue a better life, as it is for 70-somethings who want to finally see the world and enjoy their golden years. Lower gas prices means more money to do the things that matter within our country, and the world for that matter — and less money for dictatorships and criminal mafias worldwide.

Low gas prices are not the main cause of air pollution.

You know what is the number one cause of air pollution today? Coal. The fuel source that helps power electric vehicles in 46 out of the 50 states is responsible for more air pollution — in smog and carbon dioxide — than any other source.