What’s that line about the best way to a man’s heart being through his stomach? Well, apparently the best way to explain the current financial crisis to readers/viewers is through that same route.
This morning, CNBC turned to an olive grower and distributor in California who can’t get the credit she needs to expand her business. WNYC’s The Takeaway called the proprietor of a Mexican food restaurant in Maryland who said that her customers are getting a “small burrito and a cup of water” instead of a more expensive combo-meal. Last week, meanwhile, the Chicago Tribune told the credit crunch through the lens of McDonald’s.
Taking time to address the micro side in this giganto-macro situation is important. It’s hard to understand the scope of the $700 billion bailout without talking to people whose lives will be directly affected. I say kudos, and also, time for lunch.
Katia Bachko is on staff at The New Yorker.