Dr. Rice, your point about the importance of willpower is well taken. No one should spend what they can't afford, and credit cards make it easier for many of us to do just that.

On the other hand, it should be stressed that the debit and charge card alternatives you mention often cause greater havoc than even a credit card would. For example, A $3 coffee purchase on a debit card can easily trigger a $35 overdraft fee, and I've seen 8-10 small purchases trigger hundreds in fees.

Charge cards bring their own issues. While they do require payment in full at the end of each month, they are loans just as credit cards are. The problem is that if the user can't pay the balance IN FULL by the due date, then they're liable for late charges and punitive interest rates--as well as other negative consequences resulting from this "default event".

If plastic presents too much temptation, good old-fashioned cash may be the best alternative. No overdraft fees, no late fees...and when it's gone, it's gone. :)