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[The Black Gelding]

Recently, the shoe thread prompted me to ask the question, "Does our consumption of goods that were proscessed/produced in less than humane conditions make us evil? Are we, as a society, the geo-political West, accessories to the exploitation and murder of less fortunate people around the world soley because we purchace said products?" This isn't the first time I have asked this to myself. But then, as I am doing now, have come to the cold conclusion that some goods such as clothes and a few electronics that are produced in conditions that voiolate human rights are a fact of life that nothing short of making your own clothes and gadgets would remedy. I am under the assumption that most of us don't have the means, skill, or resources to do so.

Anyone else have any thoughts on this topic?

 

[Tarazet]

It's amazing how you sound like you're stroking your dick even when you're delivering a humanitarian message.

 

[Manics]

Recently, the shoe thread prompted me to ask the question, "Does our consumption of goods that were proscessed/produced in less than humane conditions make us evil? Are we, as a society, the geo-political West, accessories to the exploitation and murder of less fortunate people around the world soley because we purchace said products?" This isn't the first time I have asked this to myself. But then, as I am doing now, have come to the cold conclusion that some goods such as clothes and a few electronics that are produced in conditions that voiolate human rights are a fact of life that nothing short of making your own clothes and gadgets would remedy. I am under the assumption that most of us don't have the means, skill, or resources to do so.

Anyone else have any thoughts on this topic?

You can research to find and buy only clothes that are made in your own country. Probably cost more, but I'm sure you can do it.

 

[Stele]

Nice lip service.

 

[The Black Gelding]

You can research to find and buy only clothes that are made in your own country. Probably cost more, but I'm sure you can do it.

While that is possible, it's not at all practical. There was a time I tried to do this, but it took way to much money and effort. I live in a small town, so all the stores mostly stock clothes made in China. Not to mention the fact that I take part in a number of different clubs and athletics that require me to purchace uniforms, footwear, and other things that are made out east. Hell, for a while I only wore NewBalance shoes, but even THEY have some production in China. Also, try to find a boot made in the US. Hell, try shelling $150+ for boots that were made in Italy. Also keep in mind that I'm only a Jr. in High School.

Yes, the aformentioned were excuses, but that's where the whole means issue comes into play.

 

[border]

Sounds like somebody wants GAF to write his Social Studies homework/essay :lol

 

[Manics]

Yes, the aformentioned were excuses, but that's where the whole means issue comes into play.

Noone said being a responsible moral individual would be easy. Do the best you can, support companies that respect workers and are enviromentally sensitive and get active in promoting your choices. Let people know why you choose a certain good over another. Write a letter to a company that is exploiting workers in other countries. If enough people take action, they'll have to respond.

 

[The Black Gelding]

Sounds like somebody wants GAF to write his Social Studies homework/essay :lol

No, I am totally capable of doing my own work, though I have been tempted to ask for some homework help. :lol

Noone said being a responsible moral individual would be easy. Do the best you can, support companies that respect workers and are enviromentally sensitive and get active in promoting your choices. Let people know why you choose a certain good over another. Write a letter to a company that is exploiting workers in other countries. If enough people take action, they'll have to respond.

Yeah, I do do that. I do what I can. I try ways of informing my peers about topics such as this, but mostly adults and what not when getting into dinner discussions at a friends place or whatever. I've written a few essays on topics like this as well. In fact, a few friends and I were thinking of starting local publication or an e-zine that alerts people. But all that, as previously stated, is lip service. But currently, that's the most I can do aside from trading in all my clothes for handmade vests made from burlap bags. As it stands, the whole means issue is getting in the way of personal action. I think that's what holds back many others, but the majority of people it seems, are indifferent or totally willing to exploit others for their benifit. But do the apathetic/inactive hold the same weight of guilt as the aformentioned? As much as I don't like it, the answer seems to be "yes."

 

[Manics]

How'd the Stallion get banned?

 

[Kabuki Waq]

HE GOT BANNED!?!?!




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