Consumerism is largely understood to be a socioeconomic phenomenon in which people are driven to both produce and consume more goods and services than ever before. Often considered a modern lifestyle trend generated from Western industrialism and capitalism, consumerism is met with both support and condemnation for the values and consequences it promotes. Thus, it is increasingly an important global issue which demands study due to its impact on individuals and nations alike. The study of consumerism on an individual level is particularly important as it reveals greater societal trends in a personal manner that lends credence to theories of consumerism. To learn how consumerism affects me personally, choose the (Individual) Consumerism category.

For more on consumerism in general, see the following:

http://www.paggu.com/business/world-economy/the-effects-of-consumerism/

Also, if you love musicals check out this musical production about consumerism: