We're So Happy, We Can Hardly Count

this chapter is a satirical essay... just an introduction to the book

 

 

 

            A product is a relatively modern invention, used to create happiness and fulfillment. The demand for a certain product relies on its ability to promptly provide these feelings to the consumer. However, products often ignite jealousy among individuals who do not yet possess them. Thankfully, marketing and advertising lead the consumer into the direction where they too can be happy and fulfilled.

 

            Critics argue that by submitting into consumerism, society loses opinions, ideas, and knowledge. Similarly, they say, consumers lose their individuality. Instead of a lovely patchwork quilt, cynics see our society as an invariable melting pot. This is simply not the case. One of the elements of a modern society is the specialization in skills; this is what separates us from the cavemen of ancient times. Today, members of a society have the opportunity to pursue a life’s work according to their own interests and abilities. For example, those with skilled hands become labourers, those with great compassion become caregivers, those with flashy eloquence become politicians, and those with vast intelligence become outcasts. Each citizen contributes to society according to what they do best; why not let advertisers, manufacturers and executives do the same? Their special skill is the ability to lead consumers into the most sensible direction. By submitting to their findings, they are giving consumers the gift of a lifelong membership to the world’s biggest club: materialism.

 

            Society’s movement towards consumerism and materialism is often blamed for the supposed “dumbing down” of citizens. Because of the messages sent by marketers and advertisers, consumers no longer need to rely on their own opinions. Consequently, to depend upon an uneducated opinion is quite dangerous. Large corporations have the resources for intense research and development; the tools that most consumers do not possess for themselves. Society should trust the educated statements of these corporations as they provide this valuable service to the unenlightened masses. As the cliché preaches, “One of us is not as smart as all of us.” Partnered with skilled businesses, society can be lovingly guided into the path of happiness and fulfillment.

 

            Furthermore, society often idolizes the search for deep meaning in their lives, often referred to as “something more”. However, people do not often consider that this search is, in fact, never-ending. This foolish quest leaves the consumer feeling incomplete, as their goal is undefined and therefore unattainable. Nonetheless, the pacification that products provide is tangible, measurable and recognizable. While the feelings of happiness and fulfillment are criticized for being temporary, it must be acknowledged that these feelings are easily and instantly replenished.

 

            Complete submission into the arts of consumerism and materialism is the most prudent way in which to lead society. Large corporations have the resources to wisely mentor society; at the same time, products provide the incomparable gift of happiness and fulfillment. Furthermore, products prevent consumers from years of depression after futile attempts at self-actualization. Instead of being criticized and chastised, society should recognize consumerism and materialism as the greatest inventions of our modern age.

Author's Note

well this chapter is at the start of the book to give insight into the cynical mind of the protagonist. the protagonist constantly rants on humanity and society in general, using excellent vocabulary to make her viewpoints seem valid. any suggestions/comments are appreciated!

Reviews

[Talismanic]

'ending is better than mending
a gram is better than a damb
hug me till you drug me honey
love's as good as Soma'
- huxley
;) a spoonfull of brave new world
to force the medicine down - like it!