Sales of romance novels are up and expected to rise, “because romance novels tend to do better in economic downturns,” according to Andrew Sullivan. A recent report on NBC also notes that the recession has begotten a rise in vasectomies. “Apparently some couples, fearing that their incomes may be permanently lower, wish to minimize the chances of having another child.” Our takeaway? Sex without consequences = IN for the Greatest Depression. [Freakonomics/NYT]