More Idiocy

What is it with old Republicans not having the first clue about technology? You have now-indicted Alaskan Senator Ted Stevens not understanding the Internet tubes. You have Johnny McStraighTalk up and admitting he doesn't know how to use a computer. And just now on Talk of the Nation: Science Friday, Sen. John Warner talking about the rise in gasoline prices said the following (paraphrased):

"The carburetion systems in cars today are better than they were in 1972, 73."

and

"We don't have all the data but we're looking at studies to see if reducing speed would cut down on gasoline consumption."

1. I don't think there are any cars sold in the U.S. with a carburetor any more. Every car has fuel injection. UPDATE: No cars or trucks have been sold with a carburetor in the U.S. since 1994!!

2. Of course slowing down uses less gasoline! It doesn't matter whether you have a carburetor or fuel injection. You are moving 2 tons of steel. To move faster requires more energy and hence more fuel. This is Physics 101.

All this matters for the very important and obvious reason that these people that don't understand the particulars of modern life are the ones we have entrusted with regulating our lives.