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One of the definitions that Webster's Dictionary provides for consumerism states, "the theory that an increasing consumption of goods is economically desirable" (Webster's). The practice of consumerism has grown to epic proportions in the United States and with it are increasing global concerns of resource usage and lifestyle choices. Technology educators need to increase students' awareness about the problems that relate to misguided consumerism. Such a study is important to understanding the influences consumption has had on technological innovations throughout history. It also helps young people answer questions about their own habits and lifestyle decisions.
Instructional units that deal with consumerism can fit into a variety of technology areas including manufacturing, production, history of technology, and lessons reviewing technology's influence on society. Examining this phenomenon as it parallels technological advancements globally places the correct perspective on the way that western civilization, and more specifically the United States, relies on consumption as an economic stimulus. It also presents a stark contrast between our lifestyles and those of other developed countries (of which most students are not cognizant).
Consumerism drives the basic economic structure of the United States, but its contemporary appearance found its impetus about 100 years ago. A strong capitalistic structure requires products to be consumed at an ever-increasing rate. This is typically measured by indicators such as year-end Christmas sales. The consumption of products can be viewed as simply consuming to live or supplying our needs. Purchasing things can also evolve into living to consume. It is hard to disagree that we must consume in order to survive, but there is a growing concern that the United States consumes far too much of the world's resources in extravagant lifestyles, exhibiting little concern for what will be available for future generations.
Learning to Consume
In the Early 1800's, the United States was an agrarian society with most people struggling to make the necessities they needed to survive. In the mid-1800s, 6 out of 10 people still worked in rural settings, making most of the things they needed to survive, including tools, furniture, clothes, and growing their own food. It was in the latter part of the 19th century that two major developments occurred (Williamson, 1967):
One was the progress in invention and technology, which affected...