Civilization in 21st century is in serious trouble. Modern economic models that manipulate public's perception of economy's stability aren't working as well as they have in past. The cost of repairing environment is beyond financial and technical means of governments to do. Population is growing while resources are diminishing. Demand for a Western lifestyle is almost universal, while civilization's ability to meet that demand doesn't exist. The result will be social upheaval, political instability and economic uncertainty. The individual will be sacrificed to needs of government bureaucracy.

As an individual, your civil rights are subject to whim of your government. Most people prefer illusion of security above personal freedom. Thus, most citizens are willing to give up their rights in belief that it offers them greater protection against forces arrayed against their government. You can see it in fact that it took American Government about six weeks to repeal Bill of Rights after attack on World Trade Center. The Russian Government plans to give its citizens rights they had during czarist times, thanks to Breslan School siege.

Governments tax their citizens to pay to maintain illusion of national security and economic wellbeing. During Roman Empire, income tax rate varied from 1% to 3%. From Dark Ages to Renaissance, income tax rate was usually 20%. In modern times, income tax rate averages about 50% of your income. History teaches us that no government or civilization will survive over time. Whatever you are buying with your taxes, it isn't long term security for your family and descendants.

Those were good old days.

Now, interest rates range from zero percent to a high 39 percent. It's tougher to find (and keep) a good credit card than ever before. That's because there are many new traps that can snag unsuspecting consumers.

At top of list is "universal default clause" which allows issuers to monitor you credit report and raise your rate if you are late on any bill that appears on your credit report. One major issuer, for example, will hike a 0 percent rate to 24.99 percent if you slip up!

In fact, true "fixed rates" are rare. Many consumers don't realize that a "fixed" credit card rate isn't same as, say, a fixed-rate mortgage. In most states, card issuers can raise interest rate on a fixed-rate credit card with just fifteen days' written notice. The new rate can typically apply to existing balances as well as new purchases.

Fees are also on rise. Take late fees, for example, twenty years ago a late fee on a credit card was still fairly unusual, and typically wasn't charged unless you were 15 days late with a payment. Now you often must get your payment to issuer by a certain hour in morning or you'll be charged a late fee of as much as $39. Go over limit and you'll not only pay more interest, but a steep over limit fee as well.