Unlike most Americans, the Warlpiri spent virtually no time alone, so they felt boredom as a group.

WSJ: Interesting Fact: There's a Yawning Need for Boring Professors

Yet, although the full impact of the Fed's interest-rate cuts so far this year has still not been felt, looser monetary policy alone is unlikely to be enough to fend off recession.

ECONOMIST: The economic aftermath

This, she felt, was unfair - especially on the elderly and people living alone - so she started an oil club.

BBC: Rural oil bulk-buying clubs help 'fuel poor'