A Few Thoughts
Consumer culture is such an intricate part of our lives that I sometimes forget the great influences it has upon us as a society. Some of the externalities and side effects of this culture concern me. For example, I see a loss of meaning and value in much of life around me. The latest example I've noticed is the popularity of shirts that support non-existent sports teams (such as an Abercrombie and Fitch Lacrosse team). This trend unintentionally degrades those who wear clothing that support actual teams, whether they are on the team or merely a fan. It trivializes authentic team spirit. The popularity of these shirts demonstrate a growing acceptance of conformity. People will fill their lives with clutter that just takes up space and has no personal significance.
Consumerism is no longer important merely in our physical lives. We are taught that in order to be physically comfortable we must consume a certain amount of food, clothing, and other items. Besides this, we are expected to revert to consumerism as a solution to our emotional problems. Common are the stories of women who spend large amounts of money as a way of dealing with depression or pain. Stories are also told of people purchasing large gifts as a way of fixing troubled relationships. We're told over and over that the essential "point" of our lives is to consume. The scary thought is that people are starting to believe it! Consumer culture then changes roles from a side diversion to almost a way of life.
Materialism encourages self-doubt and self-ignorance. People worry more about what they own and how others perceive them than their own well-being. This creates people who avoid their own feelings and will remain in unhappy relationships or situations longer than they need to. I do not think that consumer culture is evil, but people need to become more aware of how they are living their lives. I have not gotten the impression that many people even recognize the kind of lives they are living. Adults should continue to go through the self-evaluation that we merely expect in teenagers. This should be a life long practice.
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