Do We Instill Personal Values Through Consumerism?

So, you think that your personal values are only taught in church, mosque, or synagogue? Think again. There are few buying decisions that you make, which may supersede conventional wisdom and, believe it or not, this is allowed.

Usually these decisions are based on your personal convictions. They can be for political or religious reasons, or out of personal loyalty. For instance, do you refuse to drive anything but an American-made car? My stepfather did. Do you shy away from buying items made by anti-American countries? Or do you buy certain products because you or someone in your family works for that company?

Whatever the reason, if it strongly influences your buying decisions over all other considerations, you may want to explain your position to your youngster.

You know that one of my passions is to make U.S consumers aware of the impact of teaching values through the buying decision, particularly when purchasing things with the label, “Made in America.” This is a subject that is growing in importance; not only because of the recession, but also because many U.S. jobs are being permanently moved offshore.

If buying products made in the U.S. and producing jobs for our workers is important to you – discuss that with your children. Explain that the reason you want to buy goods made in the U.S., means that people here are working in jobs to make those products (continue the process for your youngsters). If people are employed here, they also pay their taxes. If they pay taxes, our government has to borrow less to pay for all of the services to keep the country going. Also, explain that, even for something as insignificant as a $20.00 t-shirt, buying an import could eliminate an American manufacturer who gives people jobs. So, fewer jobs now means more people need the government’s help and more tax burdens for the people who still are working.

Try not to scare the kids, but older teens can handle real-life economics and understand how these small decisions affect the larger community. Think about it:  If every American spent $64 on something made in America, we could create 200,000 jobs right now. The only way to figure out where something is made is to read the labels.  Teach your kids to do that. If they are buying online, see if they can inquire as to where the product was made, as well.

When I recently hosted “Moneytalk,” a national radio show, normally hosted by Bob Brinker, one of the callers told me an interesting thing. I have not been able to verify this, so let me know your thoughts. The caller said, that with most major product call centers, if you are transferred to a customer service representative in a foreign country, you can request to speak to a supervisor and ask to be transferred to a rep in the U.S.  Try it next time and let me know.