Consumerism Consumes People

In the West we are now heavily programmed to consume. Whether it is food, clothing, or now electronic gadgets (laptops, tablets, phones) our way of life has lulled us into munching through these day upon day.

The problems with such consumption are many, but two to focus on here are the fact that it leads to 'de-humanising' of us all, and the process leads to consuming people. Unfair trade is now understood for many commodity food items, and is becoming understood regarding clothing. This article about working conditions in electronics manufacture sheds light on our supply of gadgets. Note some of the language used, such as 'human battery-farming system'.

In such a world people are no longer gifts to each other in relationship, but are objects of consumption - just like the gadgets themselves. All this is a far cry from the gospel, which celebrates the possibility of relationship for all humanity.

And that relationship has a solid basis - it is in the very nature of God. See how Peter recalls the majesty of Jesus, referring to the words heard from heaven: "This is my Son, whom I love" (2 Peter 1:17, recalling the transfiguration). The Father delights in the Son.

This is the model - for us to delight in each other.

Even if we were to achieve only a fraction of that kind of delight, it would not allow us to so blatantly consume our fellow human beings.