[arete]

that people take on more consumer debt when they have a POSITIVE outlook about the economic future.

Yes, we are showing signs of deflation much like Japan. As far as the consumer debt issue, I've already heard that line of spin. Sounds good and probably makes perfect sense to those in denial. It is a great excuse. Kind of like those sheep who are out spending on credit to show their patriotism. Geez -- give me a break.

Richard W.

[LS]

No, Richard, don't "give me a break," give me EVIDENCE. Where is the evidence, anywhere, any how of INFLATION????? NONE. There is none. Not in gold, not in raw materials, and obviously/certainly not in interest rates.

We have already established (remember) that productivity is rising. If productivity is rising, and consumers are buying, it ain't signs of a slowdown. C'mon, bro, you've got to have more evidence than a couple of days of stock price drops.