Even if the liberals are right about the "inchoate class longings," the conservatives are right that it is the "product of misguided spending."
I have had the opportunity to help families in my congregation that have gotten into financial problems. In almost all cases, their troubles can be traced to excessive spending. They want things they cannot afford: expensive clothing, big-screen TVs, stereo systems, cell phones, vacations, automobiles. They are willing to go into debt to get them. When they are sad, they go to the mall for a little "retail therapy." When they are happy, they do the same.
In short, they get into trouble because they are greedy.
"In short, they get into trouble because they are greedy."
Bingo! And very Un-PC.
We can't speak of greed since that might imply people are responsible for themselves!