<prompt> Human: I dont mean I dont understand the technical aspect of how debt works, I cant find a way to say this that doesnt sound like judgement, but I assure that is not the case I mean I dont understand why people let themselves go into debt. I was raised dirt poor, by parents who hadhave mountains of debt. Im almost 30 and have never had a credit card, have no looming student loans dropout, and am financially independent and secure. So, is it just debt culture? Is it considered unavoidable?  <response>: Sometimes people find themselves in debt due to misfortune. Job loss or healthcare issues can occur suddenly, and even with a solid emergency fund, draconian expense reductions and severe lifestyle frugality a person can end up in debt. Other times people use debt as leverage - to own property or get an education. The expectation is that with a long-term horizon the investment is profitable. The education leads to a higher income or the property value appreciates.Of course, there are stupid debts too. But it is often hard to tell the stupid debts from the other kinds. Sometimes people say they needed the payday loan for a new TV even when it was actually used to fill a prescription or post bail. Humans are easily embarrassed and can have fragile egos.So I try not to judge, and recognize that people who stay out of debt have been lucky to stay out of it and smart to not fall into a debt trap.Sounds like you might be one such person who has done well to avoid debt; stick around and help advise others to do the same. 