The Overspent American Response

This is in response to Bruce Wichland’s post:
How do you feel? Do you think this documentary is accurate? Are these issues blown out of proportion? Do we have a spending problem?

I have the same beliefs about this new consumerism. I feel that this document is accurate to an extent. The media definitely plays a significant role in the way Americans consume. However, it is not forcing us to go out and spend money. It may have a little influence, but we have the choice to spend money on things we don’t need. As you mentioned, 25% of people with $100,000 of annual income say they do not have the money for basic necessities. This blew my mind because needs are not that expensive unless you live that lifestyle. If you can’t afford that lifestyle then you’re not meant to be living in it. Overall, some of these issues mentioned in the video are blown out of proportion for sure.

There is no doubt that we have a spending problem here in America. I bet that the majority of Americans have credit card debt. It is understandable if the debt is from medical needs or emergencies because sometimes these types of things happen when least expected. However, when a credit card is maxed out because of vacation trips and jewelry, then that’s a different story. We are all consumers and spend money on things we really don’t need. People need to realize those goods that they really don’t need and just want because their neighbors have it. Do you agree?