Definition of Consumerism

The Consumerism is a way of life that is focused on consumers, with a habit of buying new products in a systematic way.

From an economic point of view, consumerism encourages consumers to spend, which fuels a country's economic growth.

What is consumerism ?

Consumerism is a way of showing one's social status, particularly when goods and services are too expensive for other members of the same class. This type of consumption is generally associated with the wealthy, but can also apply to any economic class. People who consume large quantities of goods and services will be better off.

The consumers buy, own and use products not for their direct use value, but as a means of signalling their social and economic status.

Some economists believe that consumer spending stimulates production and economic grow.

However, consumerism has been widely criticised for its economic, social, environmental and psychological consequences.

Advantages and inconvenients

Consumerism has many benefits for society. Although it creates jobs, stimulates the economy and leads to better goods and services.

But it has many disadvantages such as deforestation, global warming with its negative consequences on nature, the loss of biodiversity and it can also lead to debt, anxiety and even physical health problems.

In conclusion, Consumerism destroys traditional values and lifestyles, the exploitation of consumers by big business, environmental degradation and negative psychological effects.

What methods can we use to reduce our consumption?

The ways to reduce The Consumerism are learn to be content with life as it is, rather than wanting to buy things to improve it, rethinking our consumption habits, rediscovering reflection and intentionality in our purchases and reminding us that happiness does not sell in big stores.