Consumption/Consumer Economy
What are the effects of an overly consumer/consumption oriented society on the economy? This is a highly debatable issue, but like it or not, today’s economic health depends in a large part on consumption. The single most important measure of our economic growth is the GNP (gross national product.) The GNP is our nation’s measure of the total goods and services produced in a year. Although some people might look at consumerism negatively, it can be seen in a good light. Consumerism has grown out of a historical process which created mass markets, industrialization, and modern cultural attitudes where constantly rising incomes and increased affluence are considered the norm. To put it simply, consumerism increases consumption, more consumption needs more production, higher production means increased jobs and more income in society, and more income means increased consumption. This is the cycle which can, if managed properly, bring prosperity and growth to society.
