Happiness and the Economy

Our economy is largely driven by consumer spending

But does having more stuff and more money make us happy?

• Watch an excerpt from “Happy” – the movie

Another video

• No Impact Man

And now a reading, as you read think about these questions:

• What problems did Michelle and Colin think the TV caused for them?

• Do you think the TV causes similar problems in your lives?

• What role does advertising play in society?• Companies who market to children spend $17

billion annually. What ads have you already encountered today?

Colin and Michelle’s goals

• Nothing new for a year, except food– Why?• Reduce consumption• Use less resources• Create less pollution

• They did buy from Craigslist and pick things up on freecycle

Discussion questions

• What are the benefits of the Beaven’s decision?

• How long do you think you could try this?• How do you feel about secondhand items?• A video about hats

Green Labeling

• Sometimes not fully “green”• Conscious Consumer Marketplace• Alternative gifts• Alternative gift brainstorm

Its’ really about

• Less consumption• Less growth

No matter how green we make products if we are buying we are still using resources