Consumerism is our religion. Virtues of religion vs. virtues of consumerism:
1. For religion, the crowning virtue is love : for consumerism, self-regard would lead the list.
2. For religion, joy is gained through contentment : for consumerism discontent is essential.
3. For religion, patience is to be sought after : for consumerism, instant gratification.
4. For religion, self-control is a virtue : for consumerism, impulse buying.
How we name ourselves is important. Democracy names us as “citizens.” Religion names us as “persons made in the image of God.” Each has a dignity, even a nobility, that “consumer” lacks.
