CrossTalk: after the sale

Peter mentioned people being unhappy about "going small."  He wouldn't be either when going small means living off a paycheck that barely keeps one sheltered, clothed, and fed. There's a difference between living modestly and being destitute.  The conversation centers around hyper consumerism.  However, most people reeling from the economic downturn aren't the ones with McMansions, three cars, and all the trappings of "the good life."  Rather the folks hurt most were living less lavish lives.  These days, lose a job or have a paycheck that doesn't stretch very far and one may have to rely on a credit card for basics like rent, food, medical expenses.  As for saving, even if interest rates for savers were 25%, there is very little to save after paying bills for basics such as food, rent/mortgage, shelter, and medical/dental expenses not covered by insurance.  Pundits love to rant about people "living beyond their means."  For every spendthrift, there are three people who just don't earn enough to make ends meet even for a modest lifestyle - in good or bad economic times.

One guest mentioned the technology as a sector people trusted and that was doing well.  This sector IS fueled by hyper consumerism from those who can and can't afford it.  People discard smart phones, iPods, and computers for the latest model even when their old unit satisfies their needs.  This is a drain on the environment and a colossal waste of money.