To explore, in the light of Catholic Social Teaching, the underlying causes and processes that support and drive consumerism.

To identify our own hidden assumptions and inherent actions that underlie how we individually participate in the cycle of consumerism.

To deepen appreciation for the Catholic worldview and how Catholic Christians interact with the world.

“Our enormously productive economy . . . demands that we make consumption our way of life, that we convert the buying and use of goods into rituals, that we seek our spiritual satisfaction, our ego satisfaction, in consumption . . . we need things consumed, burned up, replaced and discarded at an ever-accelerating rate.”

- Victor Lebow

CITIZEN = CONSUMERCITIZEN ≠ CONSUMER

Themes of Catholic Social TeachingThe Life and Dignity of the Human Person

the foundation of a moral vision for society

Themes of Catholic Social TeachingCall to Family, Community and Participation

people have a right and a duty to participate in society, seeking together the common good and

well-being of all

Themes of Catholic Social TeachingRights and Responsibilities

human dignity can be protected and a healthy community can be achieved

only if human rights are protected and responsibilities are met

Themes of Catholic Social TeachingOption for the Poor and Vulnerable

Our basic moral test -to put the needs of the poor and vulnerable first.

Themes of Catholic Social TeachingDignity of work and the Rights of workers

The economy must serve people, not the other way around.

Themes of Catholic Social TeachingSolidarity – Promotion of Peace

We are one human family

Themes of Catholic Social TeachingCare for God’s Creation

Care for the earth is not just an Earth Day slogan it is a requirement of our faith.

www.usccb.orgwww.storyofstuff.com

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