Consumption

This week’s reading about consumer wisdom discusses the different consumption related choices and behaviors we make while keeping in mind our wellbeing and the wellbeing of others. I have chosen three products that I believe a wise consumer will spend money on. These products are a smartphone such as an iPhone, a mattress, and healthy foods. A smartphone is a device everybody owns these days. In fact, a smartphone is as if you have your life in your pocket making the way you live easier. Newer models of smartphones are constantly being released and in order to achieve this lifestyle we may want to upgrade our smartphones. Thinking of smartphone options and choosing one to purchase involves consumer wisdom especially the lifestyle envisionment dimension of the intentionality facet. The second purchase that I thought a consumer might spend money on is a mattress. Since this is a product that you purchase and It will last you a long time you should put a lot of thought into it. You will consider the future consequences of choosing a cheap mattress that you will have to replace or could potentially leave you with back problems. Additionally, if you go to a mattress store you can try out the mattresses and experience them before making a purchase. You can do research into the different materials used in different mattresses and look into facts about each mattress such as the amount of weight it can withhold and the dimensions of it. This product involves a great amount of consideration and contemplation. Third, healthy foods that are locally sourced are a product that a consumer will choose if they care for themselves and their bodies. Moreover, this consumer is buying foods that were grown locally to help promote the local economy and local businesses. You know where your food is coming from and that it is good for your body all while supporting those that are an important part of the community you live in.

These products consumed by wise consumers have several design principles associated with them. With regards to the smartphone it will have a great camera, the most advanced technologies, great amount of storage, and it will make you feel like you are secure knowing if you get lost you can access maps or if you needed help you could call or text a friend. A mattress is a valuable product, it could solve a sleeping problem or create one if you made an unwise purchase choice. It is a purchase you make for yourself to feel happy and comfortable and it is a product that is durable and will get its money’s worth. Healthy food is good for your body, provides you with nutrients, and can make you feel happy about your eating choices. A wise consumer will choose healthy food over fast food because they know in the long run it is better for their body and for the people around them.