Positives and negatives of consumerism

Positive Consumerism Effects:

·     More industrial production.

·     A higher growth rate economy.

·     More goods and services available.

·     More advertising since goods manufactured have to be sold.

·     Increased production will result in more employment opportunities.

·     A variety of goods and services to choose from.

·     More comforts for a better living style.

Negative Consumerism Effects:

·     Craving for goods is high. The wants and desires of the people increase. The better their income, the better their purchasing power. But in case, they are not able to do so, then they feel dissatisfied.

·     One is in a rat race to earn more and is forced to cope up with stress and other work-related tensions.

·     Material wealth is the deciding factor about whether a society is highly developed or not. Spiritual values are underplayed. This may not be suitable to a person from the East, who generally is appreciative of spiritual values.

·     Over-dependence on labor-saving devices.

·     A car for each individual would mean gradual erosion of public transport.

·     Crime rate also increases as wants to possess expensive gadgets increase. Thefts become common and daylight robberies take place.

·     Personal relationships also get affected as people are busy trying to earn more to maintain their standard of living.

·     Cheaper goods are imported from other goods affecting the growth of locally based manufacturing industries.

·     Consumerism has also resulted in ecological imbalances. The natural habitat is being destroyed to create more goods and build more buildings affecting the weather. Global warming will eventually result in health problems. Industrial pollution is affecting people in many ways.

·     People lifestyles have also changed in the sense they are more lavish, full of material comforts rather than focusing on simplicity. The Eastern spiritualism and philosophy have always laid emphasis on simplicity. Gandhian principles and values favor a non-materialistic approach to life. Even well-known sages such as Jiddu Krishnamurthi have also eulogized simplicity in one’s lifestyles and thinking.

·     Consumerism is also depleting the natural resources of the respective country.

·     Psychological health also can get affected if one’s desires are not meant such as depression. Jealousy and envy can lead to crime.