Consumerism Quote

Contentment is natural wealth; luxury, artificial poverty.

-Socrates (B.C. 469-399)

Socrates' quote from the ancient world, truly expresses the consumeristic world today. Studies published by The New York Times have shown that people living simple lives are happier, while those living in luxury are often more depressed people. The people in luxury believe themselves to be "poor" with respect to someone with more material possessions. Socrates' insight puts the problem of over-consumerism in a greater perspective. After all, if the ancient Greek philosopher could summarize a 21st Century problem in Ancient times, the disease may not be so confined to the American way of life.

Advertising Techniques

The Home Depot website has many links leading to their "Home Improver Club." This Club offers deals of products as well as home improvement classes. These classes give people basic knowledge in home improvement tasks and provide just enough confidence to warrant a large purchase of goods from the store. This "extra-mile" advertising technique works to the advantage of the post-recession business. People are more likely to purchase something if they can learn how and when to use it afterwards.

"Home Depot Pro Savings Newsletter & Improver Club = BIG Savings For You!"MySweetSavings -

MySweetSavings - Fast and Frugal Savings Advice for the Mother That Knows Best! 1 June 2010. Web.

27 Feb. 2011.

improver-club-big-savings.html