Economic ramblings

As most people realize, the US economy is in the crapper and the stock market is down. However, many of my coworkers say, "Don't worry. It'll get better. It always does." Really? Why should we expect a big turnaround? Which industry is going to drive that? We've outsourced quite a number of them to other countries. Sure, alternative energy companies are poised to boom and it's about time, but will that really help the economy?

I don't know anything about anything and even less about economics since I never took a formal class so anything I say here is probably wrong. Inflation is increasing so everyday goods and services are getting more expensive. That leaves less money for entertainment, luxury items, etc. Let's say the solar industry booms and electricity becomes cheaper. Is that really going to put a significant amount of extra money into people's pocket? Maybe it depends on where you live. My electric bill is between $25-30/month and about half of that is fees and service charges. My cousin's electric bill is probably $100-200/month because he lives in Phoenix and has to run two air conditioners during the summer just to stay solid. How much cheaper can his electricity get? It'll never be free and even that bill is peanuts compared to his mortgage or car payment.

I think the tough times are hear to stay so people will just need to cut back on the inessentials. Unfortunately, too many people will have to decide between food and heat this winter.