[The_Media_never_lie]

In the case of America, I would almost invert the order of occurrence.

I take it you do not dispute the outcome?

[aWolverine]

I take it you do not dispute the outcome?

I dispute it only insofar as I don't think it goes far enough. When any other country over the last 150 years went belly-up, the rest of the planetary economy was, more or less, there to act as a buffer to soak up the "thud". This time, there are *no* buffers, no rich "other" countries. Also, other national bankruptcies enjoyed a homogeneous population. We are, in fact, extremely Balkanized already, with only our freedom to travel and exceptional wealth keeping us from chopping each other up in the streets. I think the effect of this collapse is, for a moderate term anyway, going to make money obsolete. Drinkable water, food, weapons, tools, shelter, basic medical and hygiene supplies. These will be the precious commodities of the early 21st century.

[Attention Surplus Disorder]

Not having had time to read the article (which I will do) I agree with you as to the inversion. Yes, I agree the outcome is bound to be similar.

[Haddon]

My thoughts exactly.