When I consider the many, many items of news that make up our world, such as this one here, I feel I see a pattern--a trend or direction--that is generally consistent.  

It is consistent across categories.  For example, in the physical category, stories of global warming and peak oil show that our civilization is about to be physically stressed beyond its design limits.  But an item such as this one--yours--which is more political-economic, we see that our civilization is ceasing to function even WITHIN its design limits.  

Between these over-determined tendencies, our fate is both plain and unavoidable.  

I write from the US, and read with interest what others are doing, and with great curiosity about how they will fare, especially since there is not everywhere the same commitment to American mistakes.  

Yet, the poison is everywhere.  Sadly, it is clear:  Europe, too, will not be spared.  

The Fates are kind.