There's a definite threshold between "their responsibility" and "the economy's responsibility." I'd say generally the number at which you can no long afford to

There's a definite threshold between "their responsibility" and "the economy's responsibility." I'd say generally the number at which you can no long afford to (a) put a roof over your head in a reasonably safe environment, (b) buy enough at the grocery to feed yourself and any dependents, (c) afford necessary medical care. When you're trying to figure out how to make your paycheck cover only those things, we're not talking about disposable income anymore.