Marketplace for Monday, March 9, 2009

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Culture of debt driven by GM

Mar 9, 2009

There used to be a time when Americans frowned upon going into debt. But historians say that changed nearly 100 years ago. Stephen Smith looks back on how our debt-driven society hit the gas with General Motors.

Posted In: Auto

What U.S. can learn from Japan

Mar 9, 2009

As the U.S. grapples with its economic problems, some are looking at Japan's "lost decade," when its real estate and stock markets burst, to see what we can learn. Monetary policy expert Adam Posen compares the two countries with Kai Ryssdal.

GOP senators: Let some sick banks fail

John Dimsdale

Mar 9, 2009

Republican Senators Richard Shelby and John McCain are urging President Obama to let some big banks fail instead of propping them up with federal funds. John Dimsdale reports on the growing rift over how to best save the banking industry.

We demand to see more transparency

Mar 9, 2009

President Obama has promised more transparency in government. But so far, it seems we're still in the dark. Commentator Dean Baker says it's time for insurer's like AIG to come clean or taxpayers should exercise their options.

The evolution of Barbie

Kai Ryssdal

Mar 9, 2009

Who knew that when she debuted 50 years ago Barbie would have such a huge impact on pop culture? Kai Ryssdal speaks with Robin Gerber, author of "Barbie and Ruth," about the iconic doll's origins.

Spending push to fix crisis causes rift

Stephen Beard

Mar 9, 2009

President Obama is expected to push for a global increase in government spending at an upcoming summit of worldwide leaders in London. But some European nations disagree that this is the best way to approach the financial crisis. Stephen Beard reports.