People are trading recession theories online based on cultural observations. But how much can culture tell us about the economy?

Conference Board surveys point to unease about job security and raise questions about Americans’ future spending.

Usually, the federal government spends to help people through recessions. Now, “there will be far less attempt to cushion the effects,” said political economist Mark Blyth.

The hard data still points to a strong economy. But “soft” data — like consumer confidence readings — paints a different picture.

“What is completely uncertain is what the destination looks like,” says Mohamed El-Erian, president of Queens’ College, about the U.S. economy.

But this time may be different. One theory is that weaker data allowed companies to prepare and soften the economic landing.

Since the late 1970s, the Federal Reserve has had two main jobs: ensuring stable prices and maximum employment. How often does it achieve both at the same time?

The markets have been on a roller-coaster ride, and it seems we invest more emotion in the downs than the ups.

The disappointing July jobs report fed fears of a U.S. downturn, spurring traders to sell. But economic fundamentals are still strong.

While decreasing numbers of temporary workers can be a leading recession indicator, economists say this time might be different.