Is this a challenge? A threat? Or just adolescent posturing? Can you, or can you not, support your statement or refute mine? You suggest you don't care, yet you respond. Curious.
You would never own a TV, cellphone, or computer without it. No stylish cloths. Likely no car. No Right Guard. The list goes on pretty far.
This post was edited by Benedict Arnold at March 19, 2017 10:14 AM MDT
To answer your question Glis, consumerism points to the acquisition of things just for the sake of having them, and there's an element of always needing more to it as well. In that sense I can easily be a consumer and not fall into the consumerism trap. Just because I buy a Computer doesn't mean I practice consumerism, just means I need a Computer. It is not the same, one thing is consumerism, another is just going get stuff you need. I think.
It is unfortunate when what might be an interesting, productive discussion devolves into jabs and spats. So I'll try to redirect this thread and answer the implied question. I define "consumerism" as the production and distribution of goods and services. By this we are all consumers. My home has books, music, electronic appliances all which I did not produce. Even the food I eat I do not produce but rely on others to provide as goods. Consuming is unavoidable.
It is unfortunate, you're right. Anyway. That's not what consumerism means. That's just making stuff and getting stuff, and drive stuff around in big trucks. If we were to define consumerism the way you do, then you're right, we are all comsumerists and not just consumers.
Differing definitions of key terms a is often the source of misunderstanding, even antagonism, in discussions. Our discussion might be less fraught if I knew your definition of key words, "consumerism", "consumer" and "consumerist".
Hi Glis, Well of the different meanings of consumerism, I am guessing this may be the definintion close to your ponderings? "a social and economic order and ideology that encourages the acquisition of goods and services in ever-increasing amounts."
* * * Con first: The "ever-increasing amounts"...it's a Ponzi-style setup, exponential in nature, which will eventually crash EVEN if the government authorizes it.
Pro: Maybe it's just that we humankind enjoy lots of stuff, and by overobsessing eventually get the addiction out of our system, move on to more of our human potential and perceive the consumering as tools to an end not as gods in themselves.
Consumerism as a philosophy and economic model being a belief that purchasing in and of itself serves a societal purpose and function. Buying things we want as opposed to what we need. Example. As a farmer you need to buy a plow from a blacksmith. As a consumer you want to buy new music CD.
This post was edited by Benedict Arnold at March 19, 2017 10:14 AM MDT
There are several different definitions of consumerism, from advocacy for consumer rights and safety to excessive consumption. At its most basic level are what marketers call "routine purchases", and those are often the necessities required for existence.
Benedict Arnold 