The Waste Makers

"The Waste Makers" is a book by economist Vance Packard that critiques consumerism and its impact on society and the environment. It explains how advertisers and corporations encourage unnecessary consumption to keep the economy growing, often leading to wasteful use of resources and environmental degradation. The book highlights how this relentless pursuit of profit promotes planned obsolescence—making products that quickly become outdated—encouraging people to buy more and discard items prematurely. Overall, it raises awareness of the societal and ecological costs of excessive consumerism, urging more sustainable and mindful consumption habits.