In 2008, the global financial crisis decimated Latvia. As unemployment skyrocketed, the government slashed public funding and raised taxes, while providing relief to the wealthy and large businesses -- all without backlash or protest from struggling citizens. Sociologist Liene Ozoliņa examines how Latvian officials convinced their people to accept responsibility for the country's failing economy -- and highlights the rise of similar social policies upholding inequality worldwide.

Liene Ozoliņa: Why do we blame individuals for economic crises?

Why do we blame individuals for economic crises?

In Latvia's austerity, the crisis's burden fell on ordinary citizens, igniting debates on individual responsibility vs. state duty.

As banks were bailed out, Latvians were taught mindfulness in employment seminars, a stark contrast to financial realities.

Latvia's austerity measures, treating social crises as personal failures, exacerbated inequalities without sparking protest.