Affluenza...where to begin? I am definitely guilty, because I have a lot of "stuff". I know that I am slowly getting "better", but society makes it tough to ignore all the "pretty, shiny" new things. There are always upgrades and new models that are so appealing. I do try and vow that things like phones and iPods should only be upgraded if broken or stolen, or my contract is up. It is in my family, as I have 3 sisters. My mom and one of my sister's is okay for it, but I know the other two enjoy some of the "finer" things like I do. I quote "finer", because perhaps they aren't really symbols of what is considered a finer thing in life. Like we discussed in class, affluenza is just "stuff" that means nothing and usually leaves you wanting more, more, more. In North American society Affluenza is taking over. As I mentioned, there are always new upgrades to everything. Items get smaller and more streamlined, touch screened, updated styles in clothes and technology....we are in a society that is constantly in the pursuit of MORE. How can it be combated? I supposed the concept of "living green" is something that can be used. The sense of reusing things, recycling old items, giving purchases that second thought. Is it really something I want or actually need. Sustainability goes hand in hand with combating affluenza, because if we can work to be green and control our impulse buys and upgrades, we are reducing waste old, current, and future products. We are reducing CO2 emissions and other harmful pollutants that are emitted into the atmosphere or into an ecosystem from the production of those goods. In spending time with our families out doors instead of buying things, we are promoting a better healthy lifestyle as well as a greater connection with the outdoors. To try and live green could work! Society just gets faster and faster with technologies and styles, and we need to slow it down by not responding so quickly and practising our three R's. Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle!
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