"Philosopher Kate Soper argues that the first step toward a sustainable lifestyle is changing the things we appreciate. Modern life has made us frantic and despite technical advances, people work more than ever, particularly in the United States. Soper's new book, Post-Growth Living: For an Alternative Hedonism, suggests that consumerism has many downsides that, if recognized, will allow people to rethink how they value free time, work-life balance, and the avalanche of choices that define modern life."
"But consumer success is not the only possible definition of success, Soper argues. After COVID-19, our normal expectations have been disrupted. Low-wage workers have been deemed "essential" while others were allowed to stay at home, safe from contact with the virus. Supplies of food and luxury goods have been interrupted, changing how people spend and save their money. Can we use the lessons of the last year to begin a transition to a new set of values?"
A sustainable lifestyle begins by shifting appreciation from material goods to time, relationships, and slower pleasures. Modern life has increased frantic activity and work hours despite technical advances, intensifying consumption and anxiety. Consumerism demands extensive labor to sustain lifestyles and fuels inequality through an illusion of keeping up with the wealthy. Valuing less stuff can free time and reduce stress while offering new joys in slower travel, leisure, and lower consumption. The COVID-19 pandemic exposed different priorities through disruptions, recognizing essential low-wage labor and altered spending, creating an opportunity to transition toward post-growth values.
Read at Earth911
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