Beings Quote by James Howard Kunstler
“Please, please, stop referring to yourselves as 'consumers.' OK? Consumers are different than citizens. Consumers do not have obligations, responsibilities and duties to their fellow human beings.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Architecture of the City, 1995
Distinguishes consumers, who lack communal duties, from citizens who bear responsibilities toward others.
In simple terms: Citizens have duties; consumers do not.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and act as a citizen, not just a consumer.
Themes
citizenship
responsibility
community
ethics
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- public policy
- community organizing
- urban planning
- education
- activism
Key Concepts
social contract
civic duty
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we encourage consumer behavior that reflects civic responsibility?
- What policies can bridge consumer and citizen roles?
A Different Perspective
Consumers may argue they lack choice in market systems, complicating duty expectations.
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