Consumerism and advances of modern agriculture are topics of discussion usually under the radar in Politics. Believe it or not the majority of Americans do not realize the emphasis being put on spending and encouraged consumerism in our everyday lives. Growing environmental concerns have surfaced our economy within the recent years in regards to American consumption and over spending in the economy. Some may argue the positive effects of encouraged consumerism such as stimulations and growth in the economy. Likewise, studies show the destruction of the global environment is being fueled by the demand to spend by Americans. Resources used by Americans …show more content…
Consumers are spending way too much and the negative outcomes outnumbers the positive. More regulation also presents its positives and negatives. Reasons for having regulation include protecting our non-renewable natural resources, preserving the biodiversity, and limiting green-house gases. On the other hand,
2 / 7 having regulations could hurt small businesses and have serious repercussions on our economy.
American consumption, and the processes that are needed to lead to consumerism, is the largest factor of environmental destruction (American Consumerism). Americans consume at a higher rate than anywhere else in the world. These high …show more content…
Studies show that a dramatic change in consumption levels would lead to a drastic effect on our environmental foot print. The environmental factor is not the only problem that consumerism creates; it also poses other negative effects. These include low quality of products and poor work environment and terms. Companies are trying to produce products as quickly and cheaply as possible in order to increase the consumption and increase their profit. This method leads to low quality materials and an overall low quality product. The poor work environment comes from the fact that these companies are hiring more people, meaning they are paying each worker less and not compensating them as well. This can make workers feel overworked and underpaid. Lastly, the one problem that ties all of these together, is that consumerism creates a lack of control and responsibility for American citizens. Our role in a consumerist democratic society becomes merely to be marketed to. This lack of control is why it is so important to become involved on this debate of consumerism and its