Paul Holmes -
University
English Professor

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“Consumerism” ESL Discussion Questions

I. Understanding Consumerism
1. What is consumerism?
2. How do you think advertising affects consumerism?
3. Do you think consumerism is a positive or negative force in society?
4. How does consumerism impact the environment?
5. Can you name some ways to be a responsible consumer?

II. Shopping Habits
6. How often do you go shopping for non-essential items?
7. Do you prefer shopping online or in physical stores? Why?
8. How do you decide what to buy?
9. Do you think people buy things they don’t need? Why or why not?
10. What is the last item you bought that you didn’t really need?

III. Advertising and Marketing
11. How do advertisements influence your buying decisions?
12. Do you think children are affected by advertising? In what way?
13. What kind of advertisements attract you the most?
14. Have you ever bought something because of an advertisement?
15. Do you think there should be more regulations on advertising?

IV. The Impact of Consumerism on Society
16. How does consumerism affect our culture?
17. Do you think consumerism contributes to social inequality?
18. How does consumerism influence the way we view success?
19. What role does consumerism play in holidays and celebrations?
20. Can a society ever overcome consumerism? Why or why not?

V. Consumerism and the Economy
21. How does consumerism drive the economy?
22. Do you think a strong economy always means a high level of consumerism?
23. What happens when people stop buying as much?
24. Can consumerism lead to financial problems for individuals?
25. How does consumerism affect job creation?

VI. Technology and Consumerism
26. How has technology changed the way we consume?
27. Do you think social media increases consumerism? How?
28. What role do smartphones play in consumerism?
29. How do online reviews influence your buying decisions?
30. Can technology help reduce consumerism?

VII. Environmental Concerns
31. What is “fast fashion” and how is it related to consumerism?
32. How can we reduce waste generated by consumerism?
33. What is the concept of “sustainable consumption”?
34. Do you think companies should be more environmentally responsible?
35. How does the throwaway culture of consumerism harm the planet?

VIII. Personal Finance and Consumerism
36. How does consumerism affect personal savings?
37. Should schools teach children about the dangers of consumerism?
38. How can you manage your money to avoid overspending?
39. Why do people go into debt to buy things they can’t afford?
40. What are some tips for living within your means?

IX. Global Consumerism
41. How does consumerism differ around the world?
42. What are the effects of consumerism on developing countries?
43. How has globalization impacted consumerism?
44. Do you think there’s a link between consumerism and cultural homogenization?
45. How can countries balance economic growth with responsible consumption?

X. Alternatives to Consumerism
46. What is minimalism and how is it an alternative to consumerism?
47. Can you think of any other lifestyles that oppose consumerism?
48. How do you think life would change if you bought less?
49. What are the benefits of buying second-hand items?
50. How can communities support each other to reduce consumerism?

XI. The Role of Government and Consumerism
51. Should the government play a role in reducing consumerism? How?
52. What kind of laws could governments pass to encourage responsible consumption?
53. How can taxes influence consumer behavior?
54. Do you think there should be limits on what companies can sell?
55. How can governments support sustainable business practices?

XII. Consumer Rights and Protection
56. What are consumer rights?
57. Why is it important to have consumer protection laws?
58. Have you ever returned a product? Why?
59. How can consumers stay informed about the products they buy?
60. What should you do if a product is faulty or doesn’t meet your expectations?

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🧑‍💻 1 to 1 Online English Classes 👩🏻‍💻

Practice English through Zoom with me, Paul, or one of the teachers I have chosen for you. Suitable for all ages and levels.

Choose the teacher and time you want. 🧑🏻‍🏫👩‍🏫⌚️

You can learn:
– English writing skills (essays, emails, etc.) 
– English conversation practice 
– English pronunciation practice
– Textbook classes
Anything you want

Introductory prices:
60 minute class with native speaker (e.g. Paul): US$34.99 US$24.99
60 minute class with non-native speaker (e.g. Philippines, Indonesia): US$9.99 US$7.99

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