[quote=jpinpb]
I have to say that both parents working just allowed for them to buy more stuff, not really needs. [/quote]

Well, a couple things.

Our economy does not deal in needs. That is a tiny portion of the economy. It deals in lifestyle images and status anxiety. Which, if it was not pushed along with the debt, we would not have an economy – and neither would China

Now, Elizabeth Warren did a good job showing that 1 income was better off in 1975 than two incomes are today with things that are mostly out of their control but it is certainly not the whole picture.

You could also add the environmental element of globalization that causes things to be shipped unnecessarily long distances (wasting resources) coupled with profit seeking, wasteful, industrial practices and the unnecessary waste of over consumption – which has driven a sicker populace – which then necessitates more resources…. Hopefully, you get the picture