Would love to see it - for cloud files - and all swift deployments (the whole cloud files source is open sourced as part of openstack). let us know if we can help in any way.
The GOP has already targeted "rationing" as the evil word of the debate. Any talk of it will be demonized. I still have no clue what the answer is, but you are right, at some point we have to make calls at what point in the exponential cost curve do we say, "it is time to die." that is a tough one.
Added the link to my list of reading. Looks very interesting. I do share your cynicism that we have no tolerance for real change politically. The charge of socialism meets every single proposal that involves a little more government involvement.