This article explores the ideas and conventions that shape our decision making as consumers. It examines the ethics around capitalism and consumption and how consumers can shape decisions based on a better understanding of:
- supply chains
- sustainability
- an understanding of the idea of 'fair trade'.
ThoughtCo is a premier reference site with a focus on expert-created education content.
Structure and features
The 'How to Be an Ethical Consumer in Today's World' article provides:
- well-referenced and supported material written by experts in the field
- links to related stories that can be used for extended learning
- links within the article that allows exploration of key ideas in other ThoughtCo articles.
For teachers
Students can identify and explore the drivers of unhealthy consumption. Students can develop recommendations and strategies to break harmful patterns and establishing new sustainable attitudes and systems. Students can further explore ethics around consumption patterns, fair wages and exploitation of the natural environment. Students can also extend learning and research to examine sustainable options and how products can be developed that limit the impact on natural systems.
Links and files
Teacher notes
This resource provides searchable content that covers all areas of the HASS curriculum.
Students can use this text as part of their studies into Economics and business. It can be used to develop a model or program for ethical advice for consumers.
