Scenarios about 'consumerism'
Consumerism refers to the social and economic ideology that encourages the acquisition of goods and services in ever-increasing amounts. This phenomenon emerged prominently in Western societies during the post-World War II economic boom, characterized by mass production, advertising, and the cultural equation of personal happiness with purchasing power. In alternate history scenarios, different developments in consumerism can fundamentally alter social structures, environmental outcomes, and geopolitical power balances.
What If Mom and Pop Stores Remained Dominant?
Exploring the alternate timeline where local, independently-owned small businesses continued to thrive as the backbone of American retail, preventing the rise of big-box stores and e-commerce giants.