The Great Balancing Act

Moderation of Consumption is the first step in a sustainable society. Stuff doesn't have to be Disposable to be Enjoyable.

It is difficult to argue the benefits of science and technology, for they have certainly increased human comfort and made life more enjoyable for all whom they have touched.

It is quite obvious however that these advances have downsides as well. For instance the plastic pollution in the oceans and the cheapness of plastics being utilized in producing products which are essentially disposable and excess in packaging. The problem is not inherent to plastics, it is how people use and abuse them.

While neither the government or an individual should be dictating what people are allowed to purchase (except for maybe high-caliber weapons, nuclear fuel, and the like), everyone must use some judgement and understand that consumption is best enjoyed in moderation. We are taught such mantra concerning sex and drugs (and many have the audacity to say they are not allowed period), but the effects of overconsumption of material goods have similar bad effects for the individual, society, and life as a whole.

What is required is for all people to develop an idea of "How much is enough?" We need to ask ourselves questions before we decided to consume a product. Do we really need it? What kind of benefit will it bring to our lives? Can I get the same benefit from something less consumptive - possibly at a second-hand store?

Some Questions one might want to ask when contemplating a purchase:

Do I really need it? Or will I use it once and throw it in the closet?
Will my life somehow be better with this item?
How well is it made?
What do other people think about its quality? (the Internet is great for reading and writing such reviews)
Does it have all of the features that I need?
Does it come with junk that I don't need? (e.g. a computer with a new keyboard, mouse and speakers when you already have those, not to mention the garbage bundle software you may be paying for.)
What happens if it breaks? Is there a warranty, or can it be fixed? Or is it garbage?
When I no longer want it, does it have any resale/give away value? Or is it just a trendy fashion statement that will be trash in six months?
Where was it made? Can I get something maybe made by a more local company which supports my local economy and didn't have to be shipped so far?
What is the reputation of the company which made it?
Am I getting the best bang for my buck? Or will this cheap piece of junk fail to hold up and force me to go buy a new one and spend more money in the long run?
Can I afford it?

Last Modified: 06/21/2010
Created: 06/21/2010