Years ago, I saw/read a presentation from a prominent economist arguing that, more than financial resources, people should look at the changing distribution of <i>risk</i> in the U.S.<p>So, I started doing so. And so far, it has corresponded pretty well with other circumstances I've been observing.<p>There's been an enormous shift of risk from institutions to individuals. This economist argued for it accelerating in the 1970's and continuing since.<p>Sometimes, simplistic phrases are nonetheless useful -- sometimes even defining, if devoid of the details.<p>Divide and conquer. I think of that often, with regard to present circumstances in the U.S.<p>Just lately, I ran across a "random" article on social media. About a relatively little known Nobel laureate who has apparently significantly informed -- or, provided cover for -- the very self-centered and transactional philosophy and behavior of oligarchs and monopolists like the Koch brothers.<p>I had to leave off reading it about halfway through, with the intention to return. And, it mentions an apparently well-received book on the topic.<p>I'm not familiar with this web site, but here's that article's URL:<p><a href="https://www.ineteconomics.org/perspectives/blog/meet-the-economist-behind-the-one-percents-stealth-takeover-of-america" rel="nofollow">https://www.ineteconomics.org/perspectives/blog/meet-the-eco...</a>