Keith, I hear you and have thought a great deal about the things you mentioned. I discuss these topics often with family members and some guys at work. I'm 34 and married with 4 young kids, and wonder what type of world they are going to grow up in as adults.
The good thing is there are plenty of reasons for optimism. There are a whole lot of really sharp people looking for solutions to the problems we are facing and are going to face. As an individual there is not a whole lot I can personally do about it other than vote and talk to other people about it. I believe in a greater power too and am convinced that man is not really in charge.
That being said there are some common sense things that a person can do. Things like getting debt free and owning land with water on it make a lot of sense. So does working in industries and occupations that will continue to be very important regardless of how bad the economy or times get. Those who have a short commute and who are more self sufficient than others (hunting, gardening, orchards, solar & wind power, etc.) will probably have an easier time of it in the future than the average joe who is totally reliant on others to provide goods and services.
Good discussion.
Eric
