The weak economy is hurting pretty much everyone now, and it only looks like it could get even worse before getting better. The last time we saw the economy dip like this, Pres. Bush argued that it was Patriotic to get out and go shopping for America…and in some ways this helped pull the country out of the post 9/11 recession. Indeed, consumer spending accounts for around 2/3 (or more) of our economy, so any fresh pick-up in spending now would help get the economy moving again.

But is racking up more debt on Black Friday really what we should be doing?

Adbusters magazine supports an alternative cause each year during this key retailer consumption period. Adbusters argues that we should stay home and just Buy Nothing on Black Friday. Yes, instead of racking up another few thousand on one of our (multiple) credit cards, Adbusters argues that we should take a day of Sabbath instead–and rip up our credit cards in the process.

Buy Nothing Day
Vancouver actor Ted Dave started Buy Nothing Day and now the movement has spread to 65 countries. Indeed, the movement against consumption will likely have more sympathizers this year (by default). Here is the verbatim pitch and challenge from Adbusters:

As the planet starts heating up, maybe it’s time to finally go cold turkey. Take the personal challenge by locking up your debit card, your credit cards, your money clip, and see what it feels like to opt out of consumer culture completely, even if only for 24 hours. Like the millions of people who have done this fast before you, you may be rewarded with a life-changing epiphany. While you’re at it, what better time to point out real alternatives to unbridled consumption – and the climate uncertainty that it entails – by taking your BND spirit to the streets?

Over on Cone’s blog, Jillian Wilson Martin asks if this the right time to deliberately choose to buy nothing? Here is more from the post:

So, maybe a consumer-based economy isn’t the most sustainable model – but where does that leave you, the responsible citizen? Instead of buying nothing, buy less or buy with a purpose. Consider the environment and the bigger picture (is the product you are buying environmentally friendly?); consider the values your purchase supports (is the company you’re buying from committed to socially responsible business practices?); consider the impact your purchase has on future generations and the planet.

Below are a few alternative consumption ideas from the Cone blog as well:

* Purchase carbon offsets for family members who are traveling for the holiday
* Share your commitment to a cause and help someone in need by giving a “virtual charity gift” via Mercy Corps, UNICEF or Heifer International
* Host an organic holiday meal
* Double the impact of a cash gift with a Kiva.org loan
* Be eco-chic and wrap gifts in recycled paper
* Sell gifts you receive and don’t need (or want!) through eBay’s Giving Works and donate part or all of your sales to your favorite nonprofit organization

So, I really like Cone’s approach to resolving the consumption dilemma, not just on BND, but moving forward into 2009.

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