First, Western economies are cyclical, this is a low-point, so we have to kind of average over time, and we have to account for 'surpluses'. 'Walmart' standard

First, Western economies are cyclical, this is a low-point, so we have to kind of average over time, and we have to account for 'surpluses'. 'Walmart' standard of living is basically magnificent for anyone living in 1980 for example. Almost 'upper class'. It's unthinkable the quality, quantity and amazing expression of goods, selection that you can get in Walmart now, compared to 'average shopper' in 1980. Fish, lobster, sushi, vast array of breads, fruits out of season, innumerable array of packaged foods, toys and sports equipment as far as they eye can see, clothing that costs as much as a coffee. etc. and technologies that we could not have dreamed of. I'm not saying there isn't a problem, I'm just pointing out two areas, the later of which is generally overlooked.