The Evils of Consumerism

In the 1920s, the United States enjoyed a great economic growth, which enabled millions of Americans to spend larger amounts of money. Recently invented items, such as cars, also contributed to this dramatic rise of consumerism that occurred during this period. Advertising campaigns helped to fuel the demand for the newly invented items. However, many economists believe that this over indulgence and over spending were harbingers to the Great Depression of the 1930s. The consumerism in the 1920s paved the way for a changing life style and attitude over money and spending in America. Many Americans acknowledge that we, as a society, spend too much money, but this does not stop us from wasting millions of dollars on products and services that we never use. It is true that consumerism has some positive effects, such as improving the economy, creating more employment opportunities and increasing the standard of living. However, the over spending and excessive wasting associated with consumerism result in an unhealthy craving for goods, decreased value of spiritual and moral values and excessive greed; all of which plague American society.

The end of World War I ushered in a new era of prosperity and steady economic growth in the United States. As people became wealthier, they were able to buy many of the newly invented goods in the market. New inventions such as the refrigerator, radio, and especially the much coveted car, were desired by all Americans, rich or poor. Many Americans did not care about the price or upkeep of the new car; they just had to have one. Radios and cars, luxuries until then, became necessities in the daily lives of the American people. Once a new gadget, came out, it also became a must have an...

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...nacea for all dissatisfaction.

The United States in the 1920s has many uncanny similarities to the United States in 2007. Both times were marked with over indulgence and overspending, and both practices came to end with severe economic downturns that followed. Americans in both eras frequently spent money and rarely thought about the consequences. Consumerism causes people to be extremely money-minded, because money becomes the main focus for most people. People become greedy and want everything that they can get their hands on. Although many people are extremely wealthy, they are also self- centered and remain apathetic to the struggles of the less fortunate. As money becomes the most important item in society, moral standards are loosened. Because of this people will lie, cheat and steal; basically they will do anything to become as wealthy as possible.