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Affluenza
224 pages, 2006
c Our kids go to the best schools we can afford, but we hardly see them. We've got more money to spend, yet we're further in debt than ever before. What is going on?
The Western world is in the grip of a consumption binge that is unique in human history. We aspire to the lifestyles of the rich and famous at the cost of family, friends, and personal fulfillment. Rates of stress, depression, and obesity are up as we wrestle with the emptiness and endless disappointments of the consumer life.
Affluenza pulls no punches, claiming our whole society is addicted to overconsumption. It tracks how much Australians overwork, the growing mountains of stuff we throw out, the drugs we take to 'self-medicate,' and the real meaning of 'choice.'
Fortunately, there is a cure. More and more Australians are deciding to ignore the advertisers, reduce their consumer spending and recapture their time for the things that really matter.
In Affluenza, Clive Hamilton explores the concept of 'affluenza', a term he uses to describe the societal obsession with material wealth and consumerism. He argues that this obsession is not only detrimental to our mental health but also to our environment.
Hamilton digs into the negative effects of consumerism. He suggests that our constant desire for more and better material possessions leads to overwork, stress, and a general dissatisfaction with life. It's a thought-provoking look into how our shopping habits can impact our happiness.
The book also highlights the environmental consequences of affluenza. Hamilton points out that our consumption-driven lifestyle is unsustainable and is causing significant harm to our planet. It's a wake-up call for us to rethink our habits and consider the bigger picture.
Hamilton takes a critical look at the role of advertising in promoting consumerism. He argues that advertising manipulates our desires and contributes to the spread of affluenza. It's a fascinating exploration of the power of media and marketing in shaping our behaviors and attitudes.
Finally, Hamilton doesn't just diagnose the problem, he also offers solutions. He suggests that we can cure affluenza by shifting our focus from material wealth to other aspects of life like relationships, community, and personal growth. It's a compelling invitation to find more meaningful ways to measure success.
