How is consumer debt different today than in the past?

What role do interest rates play in mounting consumer debt?

What are the typical interest rates applied to credit cards, mortgages, and other debt?

Many of todays interest rates are variable rather than fixed. What difference does this make to pension plans, housing loans, and other personal finances?

Have the issue of consumer debt and the role of interest rates been explored?

Does the response clearly explain the causal relationship between fixed interest rates and pension plans, housing loans, and other personal finances?

Are statements supported by reason and research?