23/09/2024
There was a time when things lasted - homes, vehicles, appliances, lawnmowers, clothing, shoes, gadgets, etc. Pride was taken in putting out quality products that were made to last a lifetime and beyond.
Then things changed, and it was so gradual that most people never noticed it. The greed for money became more important than quality. Things were no longer created to last, but to break, fall apart, stop working, or wear out many years before they should. Quality was killed off and consumerism was created.
Consumerism has actually been around for a while, and it really began in the past 40 years or so, and has only increased massively since then.
Consumerism, especially in today's world, has evolved into a culture where people feel compelled to buy, replace, and upgrade products regularly. This stems from a combination of planned obsolescence - where products are designed with a limited lifespan (on purpose) - and the relentless marketing that convinces us we need the latest, trendiest versions of things.
Many items, from electronics to clothing, are no longer built to last. This “throwaway culture” not only drives constant purchasing but also fuels waste and environmental degradation. When someone stops working or breaks, we feel the need to go buy a new so (and made to last for even less time).
People are encouraged to consume more and keep replacing cheap made junk sold at high prices, believing it brings happiness or status, while companies profit from the cycle of production and disposal. This approach is draining, both financially and emotionally, as it creates a never-ending need for the new and replacing items, without a sense of lasting value or satisfaction.
How can you fight consumerism? There are several ways to fight consumerism. Buy only what you need, not what you want. If something can be repaired, repair it rather than toss it out. Look for parts and price replacing parts instead of buying an entire new item. Buy older vintage type items that were made to last instead of modern versions. Check out yard sales and Facebook Marketplace for older vintage items that you need.
Break the cycle of consumerism. It will save you a lot of money, it will teach your children what real value is when it comes to buying things, and it will help the environment.
