SoCalMike wrote:

> Dave wrote:
>
>> I don't think that debt is much of an issue. The real issue is the
>> long-term retiree and worker obligations
>
>
> japan has retirees, too. and its expensive as hell to live there.
>
> its not like they send all their old people off onto flaming rafts in
> the sea of japan, or give em seppuku swords to kill them selves instead
> of a gold watch.
>
> i think part of the reason lies with nationalized health care.

Not to mention universal retirement - wouldn't it be ironic if the Big 3
CEOs lead the way to universal health coverage in the US?