Capitalism 3.0

In Capitalism 3.0: A Guide to reclaiming the Commons, Peter Barnes mentions the different phases of the American Economy.  He varifies that these stages are in fact true by stating that the affects on the environment are obviously due to the way people treat life.

Some Americans have the attitude that they can do whatever they want.  But how did we get to this point, to the place where we can get, use, buy, throw-away, whatever and there are no consequences?

Barnes explains that after WWII the American economy boomed (like the baby-boomers).  With this expantion came a surpluss of goods, rather than a limitation.  Supply and demand changed, and there were now enough goods for everyone (who could afford them), but that's the best part, prices went down so that everyone could afford them!

This idea of "I want, I need, I buy" has led Americans to be wasteful in their spending.  Not only in spending but in discarding have Americans done harm.  This loose attitude American have, has caused harm to the environment, and until that changes, the environment will suffer even more.