Counter Currents: In 2008 the U.S. economy tripped down a steep, rocky slope. Employment levels plummeted; so did purchases of autos and other consumer goods. Property values crashed; foreclosure and bankruptcy rates bled. For states, counties, cities, and towns; for manufacturers, retailers, and middle- and low-income families, the consequences were–and continue to be–catastrophic. Other nations were soon caught up in the undertow. In late 2009 and early 2010, the economy showed some signs of …