Drinking water Quote by Barbara Kingsolver
““It's interesting that penny-pinching is an accepted defense for toxic food habits, when frugality so rarely rules other consumer domains. The majority of Americans buy bottled drinking water, for example, even though water runs from the faucets at home for a fraction of the cost, and government quality standards are stricter for tap water than for bottled. At any income level, we can be relied upon for categorically unnecessary purchases: portable-earplug music instead of the radio; extra-fast Internet for leisure use; heavy vehicles to transport light loads; name-brand clothing instead of plainer gear. "Economizing," as applied to clothing, generally means looking for discount name brands instead of wearing last year's clothes again. The dread of rearing unfashionable children is understandable. But as a priority, "makes me look cool" has passed up "keeps arteries functional" and left the kids huffing and puffing (fashionably) in the dust.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: “The Cost of Convenience” by Barbara Kingsolver, 2015
People often justify wasteful, unhealthy choices by claiming frugality, yet they spend money on unnecessary items while neglecting health and sustainability.
In simple terms: People spend on needless things while ignoring health and the environment.
Prioritize health and sustainability over superficial savings.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- grocery shopping
- family budgeting
- choosing clothing
- transport decisions
- internet plans
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we align frugality with health and environmental goals?
- What habits could replace unnecessary purchases?
Frugality can be misapplied, leading to paradoxical waste and health risks.