At the same time, the state was retreating from providing the kind of social security that had been a hallmark of the post-war era. Risks that had formerly been socialised were privatised, encouraging middle-earners to “think like capitalists” in planning and insuring for risks. Private health insurance coverage has increased as wealthier consumers seek out better care than that which is available on the NHS. Rising tuition fees have also shifted the burden for paying for education onto individuals, who find themselves saddled with debt well into their careers. Many working families were taken in by the “delusion of thrift”, believing that their pensions and properties were increasing in value because of smart investments rather than a generalised environment of asset price inflation. This was, of course, a delusion — one that was quickly shattered in 2007 and the legacy of which many families are still dealing with. Many peoples’ pensions were effectively wiped out in 2008 (only to be revived through QE), some homes were foreclosed upon, and personal bankruptcies soared. Unsurprisingly, this assumption of what were previously socialised risks by ordinary households has led to a pervasive rise in feelings of anxiety and insecurity.