An Issue of Money Spending in "Stuff is not Salvation" and "On Dumpster Driving" Texts

An Issue of Money Spending in "Stuff is Not Salvation" and "On Dumpster Diving" Texts

In the essay “Stuff is Not Salvation” by Anna Quindlen (2008), she discusses how people in America often get carried away and spend their money on frivolous items. She emphasizes the need for individuals to be conscious of their spending habits and the consequences that arise from their decisions. Quindlen is vehemently opposed to the wasteful spending of money. She further elaborates on the difference between what is truly necessary and what is superfluous. Additionally, she argues that it is unnecessary to purchase expensive items solely to impress others. In contrast, the essay “On Dumpster Diving” by Lars Eighner (1993) highlights how people spend money only to be wasteful. Both authors raise valid points: why spend money on unnecessary things that serve no real purpose?

People often believe that the items they purchase will significantly improve their lives, yet they fail to realize that they become trapped by consumerism. Why waste money on something that someone else could genuinely use, only to discard it later? Just because advertisements make products appear enticing and irresistible does not mean they are essential purchases. When people squander money on unnecessary items, it reveals how easily anything can be sold. There are far more important necessities to invest in, such as education, food, and shelter. While it is acceptable to purchase nice things and care for oneself, it is crucial not to go overboard and buy expensive items that are not needed or could be acquired at a lower cost.

Individuals should prioritize their spending decisions more wisely, as they are wasting money that could be invested in something smarter or safer. Essentially, spending money on items that will eventually be discarded does not lead to happiness. If people took more time to consider their choices, they would realize the potential consequences of their spending habits. In “On Dumpster Diving” by Lars Eighner (1993), Eighner observes how people discard valuable items after spending money on them. In “Stuff is Not Salvation” by Anna Quindlen (2008), she questions, “Does anybody really need a flat screen or a designer handbag?” She implies that purchasing such items may not be worth it if essential expenses like bills and food are not covered. When people buy all that stuff, they still aren’t going to be happy. It is important for individuals to assess whether the items they are about to purchase will be useful and beneficial in the long run. Eighner notes that people waste their money on things they don’t need, and once they tire of them, he finds these items in the dumpster. If it ends up in the dumpster and isn’t food, it means they wasted their money because they didn’t need it in the first place.

Both authors share a connection in their observations. They highlight how people waste money on unnecessary items. Anna Quindlen illustrates how people believe they need something when it’s not important, leading them to spend money on items they eventually discard. This connects with Lars Eighner’s experience as a dumpster diver, where he often found “perfectly new” items that people had wasted. He explains how selfish people can be when they waste things that others in the world cannot afford. I completely agree with both authors because I understand the difference between wanting something and needing it. Americans who grasp this distinction are more likely to manage their finances wisely and exercise self-control.

References:

• Quindlen, A. (2008). Stuff is Not Salvation. Newsweek.
• Eighner, L. (1993). On Dumpster Diving. In Travels with Lizbeth. St. Martin's Press.