[vitruvian_man]

I love reading salty HN comments.

Debt (credit) is and will be a crucial part of any functioning economy and society. It's been around for millennia [0]

[0]The Price of Time: The Real Story of Interest is a wonderful book on subject.

[alexb_]

I'm not opposed to debt. Debt makes the economy run, it's where 99% of the US money comes from! What I'm opposed to is the practice of harassing poor people who don't understand what debt is until you can squeeze the last of their savings out, all so you can make a quick buck.

[p0pcult]

Not sure anyone is contesting the idea that debt is a useful tool, merely the fact that these companies are typically predatory, preying on people who typically--can't pay their debts. In a country where medical care is expensive and not government-insured, it is sensible to question the societal value of debt collectors, which is all that is happening here.