Yes, real and perceived… Mr. Howlingmad has a very good point to his comment on consumerism.  I think that the bottom line on what we do and why is based on our perception of relative comfort.  If we can rationalize our situations and choices, we don’t have to deal with the implications that go with them.  So, if I (insert situation here), I can blame it on or relate it to (insert situation here), and can feel relieved because it could be worse or there is nothing I can do about it anyway.   Mind eased, and comfort level returned to “do-able”.  Even the most horrific scenario will fit, because our minds are amazing things.  Of course, it does come with a cost.  Comfort is like a mummy - you have to wrap yourself up in it until you can’t see anything else.