[David Bachelder]

I disagree. Charging and collecting excessive prices is gouging. Without the act of purchase it is simply over priced and no one gets hurt. In the cases of Price Gouging, there is a victim.

Gouging is the act of increasing prices due to some sort of crisis or shortage. It is not ethical and more than likely illegal. Do not support companies that practice it. I have seen the government step in and stop price gouging after Hurricanes in the Gulf Coast where I used to live. I saw them reduce the price of gasoline at a convenience store (Buc-ees) and plywood at Lowes. Both outlets were Gouging the public for these supplies. There were victims.