I’d also point out Alan, that there have been tax breaks given for purchasing hybrids and I would not be opposed to shifting more of a tax credit from SUVs to hybrids.

Second point, my argument is that it’s not a Constitutional use of power, nor an effective one. I also find the idea of stating using the Federal government (the most wasteful and ineffecient instrument known to man) is necessary to the efficiency of Captialism to be bizarre.

The government should handle basic things such as punishing those who commit crimes, actively pollute their neighbor’s air and water, and use unfair practices. To have the government telling them how to make a car is absurd. The end result will likely be more expensive cars that will be less affordable for the common person.

Also, corporations are creations of government action. They couldn’t exist without government involvement. It is a rightful and proper role for government to regulate what it creates. A corporations is a creation that allows individuals to escape consequences of their actions. In exchange for this protection, the individuals agree to certain limits and behaviors.

Finally, capitalism can only operate efficiently when it is regulated and policed. Again, the government has a proper and indeed essential role here, and it does in many other areas.

Individual self interest (unrestrained capitalism) does not always work out to the best result for society as a whole. Read up on the fallacy of the commons, for instance.

I cannot accept your conclusion because I believe your entire premise – that govenrment should have no role regulating – is false.