On the other hand, we need to calm down

Just as I work myself into the highest dudgeon of the collapse of civilization, Carpe Diem has to come along and point out that things are getting better at a remarkably consistent rate.  Over the last couple of centuries per capita output has grown at a rather consistent two percent per annum.  Which is enough to grow wealth per capita eight fold over a century.  Put another way, if things continue, in a century the Average American will produce 400,000 in goods and services.

Even if we suck and only achieve 300,000 because of our profligate government, it still will be astounding.  Not even Obama can screw up the natural increase in human innovation and wealth.