Consumer culture in America

Americans have an obsession with consumerism. Whether the consumption is in buying, advertising, manufacturing or distribution, the majority of the American public is fascinated with the art. The technically crafted trade of consumerism has been forced upon us throughout time. Like a runaway train, consumption is inescapable. Through measures of simplicity, consumerism has been pushed away from attacking the very core of existence. However, many Americans cannot rid themselves of simple necessities to avoid the massive upheaval consumerism places amongst a public. As a consumer society, has consumption been forced upon us? Since the late 19th Century, consumerism has broadened its horizons immensely with tactics of advertising, labeling, branding, and public relations' manipulation. I believe these bold maneuvers by manufacturers and advertisers have been thrusted upon the American public, but the society has welcomed the tactics with open arms. Specific instances in history h...