THE CONSUMERIST

I value freedom to spend money and buy things. If I like what a product can do for me—and its image/ associated message— I will buy it. I like pretty things. If I am envious of something someone else has, I will work to get one for myself. When I tire of a possession, I discard it for something new. Often, I express who I am through what I buy.  I find my needs can be met if I shop around, and I like to shop. (Note: many shoppers give no thought as to resource use, chemical residues, packaging / waste disposal issues behind products they buy.)

THE SMALL PRODUCER

I’m not happy just buying what others—like big corporations — provide. I like expressing who I am through what I make with my hands and small tools. Whether producing food, shelter, clothing, arts & crafts, etc— for my use or others’—I’m happiest doing this type of work —although earning a living this way is challenging!  If I can’t have both, I value function more than pleasing form. I like societies based on families working land as small producers. They have great incentive to protect it /maintain its productivity out of self-interest, etc. (Note: many have no choice: they must produce to survive.)