Golly, how does the richest nation in the world come within spitting distance of a depression almost overnight? This revealing article that appeared in BussinessWeek just as Henry Paulson took the reigns as SecTrej should shed some light. A few choice blurbs:

“Think of Paulson as Mr. Risk. He’s one of the key architects of a more daring Wall Street, where securities firms are taking greater and greater chances in their pursuit of profits. “

“Clearly, Paulson isn’t scared by debt and risk-taking (…) Facing intense competition from around the world, the only way the American economy can thrive is through risk-taking.”

And of course:

“Paulson is known as an exceedingly effective communicator. If he can translate Wall Street’s language of speculation into something the public and politicians understand, the President’s gamble in appointing him will pay off for everyone.”

“Give me every fucking penny you’ve got or planet earth dies!!” Is that effective enough communication for you?