How can consumerism empower groups?

1. How can consumerism empower groups? What role should consumerism play in our economy?

2. Introduction • In the previous lesson, you were asked to think about what products and goods you would like to see changed. • Some reasons included better quality of the product, protecting the environment, need for space, and improving safety.

3. As an individual, you might be able to make suggestions regarding these changes or improvements. To be most effective, however, it is better to work as a group. The more people involved, the more likely change can occur.

4. Let’s view How Organized Consumer Purchasing Can Change Business. • As you watch this video, think about how the organization Carrotmob has created change.

5. Carrotmob used a form of influence referred to as reverse boycott. This is to support one company or organization that is willing to make the changes asked by Carrotmob. • boycott: the decision to not buy or support a product or business in order to create change.

6. Carrotmob concluded there are five steps to reverse boycotting: • Businesses compete with how much good they are willing to do. • Consumers choose one business they want to reward. • Consumers support that business by making coordinated purchases. • The most responsible business gets rich. • Consumers buy things that they would buy anyway, but by organizing themselves, they change the world!

7. Boycotting has been used many times in history. • Complete Lesson 4: Boycotts and Quality of Life