The National Youth Agency: Comment - Market obsession

Unfortunately, there are problems with shopping. It is a pastime that requires money, so there is more available to some than others. For some people the act of shopping leads to serious financial problems. Moreover, buying more than you need to use depletes the resources of the world. Behind every bargain, someone may have experienced loss - and these are usually low-paid workers in poor countries who work forever in the attempt to survive.

On a more pragmatic note, how often do we buy something, take it home, put it on the shelf and end our sense of satisfaction? Shopping is hardly creation. Shops aren't interested in you creating, they want to sell you something. They never say: "Here are some nice beads. Sit down and together we will create some jewellery". No - the message is: "Buy this and it will change your life."