I'm confused by the doomer/survivalist argument presented here: if you truly believe that there's going to be some sort of anarchy breaking out and you want you and your family to live, why hang on to your current lifestyle, what are you waiting for?
I don't know what is going to break out. Before I knew about Peak Oil, I thought I was going to retire at age 50 (I am 32 now). I don't know how the problem of declining oil, declining natural gas & economic depression or collapse will manifest itself.
The other important issue is timing. When is it going to get bad for me? I don't have any answers, only questions. Until the answers are apparent to me, I will sit put and prepare for general emergencies (water, food, power & money shortages).
Another question I'd like to ask: "Do you want society to break down?"
NO!
If not, and you're not prepared to change your current lifestyle because of money issues, how about acting, persuading, advocating or educating (all free or cheap) so that friends, relatives, your community and local legislators are working to prevent a breakdown?
I am prepared to change my lifestyle, but not before I have to. Why? Because I like it too much.
I have been communicating Peak Oil to friends, co-workers and relatives. As for are political system, I don't think there is any hope. At least not until there is a crisis, then maybe.