Drastic Changes

When Assadourian demands “cultural transformation,” he is implying the need to dismiss consumerism - what drives individuals to find happiness in the purchasing of senseless objects and the very essence of our current culture - and instead focus on sustainability. Though to some Assadourian’s request may appear crazy or impossible, I believe it to be viable and dire, particularly when “In 2008 alone, people around the world purchased 68 million vehicles, 85 million refrigerators, 297 million computers, and 1.2 billion mobile (cell) phones.” This massive reliance on basic goods epitomizes a culture programmed to consume and this needs to change in order to survive. Though I do believe the switch to sustainability with require more than a few “cultural pioneers.”

A valid point Assadourian makes is the influx of problems that will occur if nothing is done to prevent the destruction of the environment and increase of CO2 into the atmosphere. These problems should put the environment on the top of every national security agenda. Without protecting it comes problems with refugees, fighting over natural resources, increased costs in health care, and so on. But the construction of a “sustainability paradigm” is tricky, given how much consumerism is engrained in every aspect of our culture, be it in government, schools, public programming, or even when walking down the street. Though it would be wonderful to change conceptions in every aspect of life, it would require not only grassroots initiatives but also those in power, the government and the businesses that run them.

Fortunately as Assadourian points out, since the beginning of the 21st century increased awareness has formed around this issue. It is true that champions of this cause are making great strides but until everyone makes it a priority to change, little can be done. It cannot be just consumerism or culture that changes but everyday life, a shift in riding bikes rather than driving a car, or making ones own rice rather than relying on a rice cooker all have to do with time and convenience. Being programmed to work eight to ten hours a day while providing for a family, is enough to make many drive rather than walk. Every aspect of life needs changing, from our value system to our work ethic and feelings of worth, but most of all, there needs to be a change in the idea of growth, from a focus on material to an emphasis on mental.