Brian I enjoy your intelligent posts, and apologize because what I have to say won't qualify for your league, and I have posted before, but maybe you could (politely) help me out ...

"In the inflationary environment which will ensue if we do avoid deflation and depression, the answer is gold, silver, oil and the hard assets of resources which the developing world will require for the buildout of their infrastructures."

I know you're right, but: Why in the world is everyone so hell-bent on retaining precious metals as an investment or currency model? What does anyone do with it, other than put it in a closet? What is its worth, other than something pretty to look at?

If the world were to come crashing down around us, what good would it do to have a bar of gold in the refrigerator? Wouldn't you rather have a loaf of bread, or a gallon of gasoline in your garage?

Must be a stupid question ...