The High Cost of Discount Culture

I read a really interesting book recently.  If you've had a conversation with me in the past few months, you most likely heard about this book.  Cheap: The High Cost of Discount Culture examines the American consumers obsession with bargains.  I found it intriguing how the invention of things like the price tag and the shopping cart, changed consumption practices over time and the discussions on how the demand for inexpensive goods is continually reducing the items we buy to the lowest possible quality.  

One of the most interesting things that was brought to my attention by this book (and now it seems rather obvious to me) is that most of us shop with price being the most important factor...to the point that we go to Target to buy one item and when it is too expensive, we come home with something we have no need for, but that seemed like a good deal.  You know those dollars bins have swindled you too! It's an easy read with loads of facts and stories.  It is definitely trying to make a point and I think it does a good job.