Why Do Americans Consume So Much? Look to the Military.

"I'd sum up what I remember something like this: Americans consume one hell of a lot-cars, clothes, food, toys, expensive private colleges (ahem...), and that's just to start. Since other countries like China, the United Kingdom, and Japan purchase substantial chunks of US consumer debt, they have a vested interest in our economic stability."

"So, even though you and I probably feel less than empowered as we scramble to make mortgage, car, or credit-card payments, the fact that we collectively owe a bunch of money globally makes it less likely that a country like China will want to rock the boat-and that includes literally rocking the boat (as with a torpedo)."

"In classes like that one at Brown, I came to understand that the military power we get from owing money is self-reinforcing. It helps keep our interest rates low and, in turn, our own military can buy more supplies (especially if Donald Trump's latest demand for a $1.5 trillion Pentagon budget goes through!). Our own debt somewhat ironically allows this country to continue to expand its reach, if not around the globe these days, at least in this hemisphere (whether you're thinking about Venezuela or Greenland). Often when I splurge on a fancy Starbucks latte or a new pair of shoes, I think about how even critics of US military hegemony like me help prop up our empire when we do what Americans do best-shop!"

Americans consume far more than domestic means support, including cars, clothes, food, toys, and expensive private colleges. Foreign holders such as China, the United Kingdom, and Japan buy substantial portions of US consumer debt, creating a vested interest in US economic stability. That external ownership lowers incentives to destabilize the US and helps keep interest rates low. Low interest rates enable expanded military spending and procurement, reinforcing US military power. US debt therefore underpins both economic consumption patterns and geopolitical reach, and routine consumer spending indirectly supports American military presence and influence.

Read at The Nation