It's not surprising, the rest of the worlds currencies are tied somewhat to precious metals while the US dollar is not. Precious metals are way over-valued right now, which is why prices in the US still remain low despite it low relative value.
Partially tying currency to precious metals means that when the economy goes down the value remains relatively stable on exchanges but inflation occurs anyway which is why gas prices go up the same percentage amounts (in open markets, and some what in controlled fuel markets) as the US even though the currency is supposed to be more valuable.
If anything the weaker dollar is the only thing that is going to save the short term economy as US products become more attractive (low value + high domestic purchasing power); long term though this same principle can hurt the economy though if it is the only strength because of dollars going into circulation out of reserves... hopefully some sectors will improve before this become too dangerous or the whole world is in for some serious shit if the US economy completely falls apart.
I would cite regulation, but I know you will simply ignore it.
