This graph is important in that it focuses on consumer spending, which continues to fall as this recession continues. The big-picture comparison to other U.S. recessions is significant, and confirms (unfortunately) what many are worried about. I'd like additional information accompanying this graph to help put this info in context: what caused the turn-around of consumer spending in previous recessions? Based on what's been seen so far, any ideas on where consumer spending will go ... More »

Interesting graphic showing how much consumer spending has declined in this recession, compared to previous recessions. This suggests that consumer spending may play a much lesser role going forward than it has over the past few decades. Be sure to also check the great interactive graphics in the related article from WSJ (see link).