to want to teach the MNetters some basic economics about higher education funding

[witchwithallthetrimmings]

but don't know where to start. there is so much wrong thinking here not only about the economics (the costs and benefits and how they are shared) but also about the facts.

ooo that's a thought though isn't it? Going back to the original question of whether student debt is a bad thing. If you die and it's repayable from your estate you could leave your family with a bit of an issue.

Do post 1998 loans die with you?

1998 - 2005 loans last until you're 65, or you die or are permanently disabled.