Hi Ausgirl - I totally feel what you are saying. I feel exactly the same way. I really feel like our society is currently set up so we just spend more and more (often when we can't afford it) on 'stuff'. It is as if we are looking for happiness in a box. I am very worried about humans living within their biological means. I think we are living on environmental credit that we won't be able to pay back because the interest will be too high, ITMS. Every item comes from somewhere and ends up somewhere, and even if you can financially afford it, can the world afford it? A good example is all of the technology that is so standard in an Australian home, but the problem of electronic waste is a very real environmental and health issue.
I think Jennifer has made some good points as well.