Hi Maggie,
Just for fun, I checked for ethically made computers. There are none. Of the 20 possible points for being ethically made, no laptop ranks above 10. My pc ranks 4.5. I didn't choose it or buy it. I worked for someone who then ordered it and had it sent to me. Nonetheless, I am also guilty of supporting this slave culture.
One thing about not having much money is that it is easier not to buy things. Each purchase is a decision. It's a pain, but I think maybe it is a blessing in disguise.
I have been reading more about the slave labor that goes into producing electronics. I can see the problems. But if I stretch my mind a little, I see my own slavery. If I didn't have this pc, I would not be able to do my job. Without a job, I would be homeless. I have to do as my corporation says I must. I do not shake the tree much, because - without a job I would be homeless. So many of us are so close to homeless.
Somehow I think we are supposed to live on slavery, but not see it. It pollutes our life, this interwoven pain, but we don't know what is wrong...
One piece of advice I saw while reading about ethically made products was to buy used. I understood that about cars years ago. If we buy new car, the manufacturers are stimulated to make more. If we buy used - I don't think that is true. Also, driving a new car off the lot lowers its value - it is no longer new. The same is not true when we drive a two year old car off the lot.
I buy used a lot. Most of my clothes are from second hand shops. I don't think I have any new furniture in my house. Not much of anything - not pots or pans, not plates or silver...
Maybe I should sing a rousing verse of Second Hand Rose!
But buying used changes the economy, in ways that I want it to change. Plus most items are in my price range. Win-win!!
I also boycott Nestle. I have been doing that since 1982. I boycott Monsanto, too.
It's late. I'm tired. But I have a three day weekend...
Love and hugs to you and the dog and everyone else in the family!!
Clare
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