I also think some form of regulation is necassary. Made a poll about it in a different forum and 65% would be in favor of reregulation. The industry is too unstable being completely unregulated.

As to informing the public, I think we should all walk around in full uniform, dressed our best, hat and all with a big sign on our backs stating our position, and how little we make. "Airline First Officer, I make less then 20,000$ a year." In my case this year it will probably be less then 18, but who's counting..