General Discussion
In reply to the discussion: Best rant on PC I have seen for awhile...long, but worth it. [View all]robbob
(3,554 posts)Sorry,I couldn't resist, but your point has been raised several times in this thread (i.e. "The good old days weren't so good because..." , but the point of the anecdote is environmental issues and whether we are really so "green" now with our disposable goods society. How many computers and printers have I thrown away since 1980?
Anyway, just a couple points: assuming this is even a real story (which I doubt): that cashier should be fired. Directing rants at older customers for "ruining the world" is not part of her job description. Maybe something more along the lines of "We have these beautiful reusable bags for only 50 cents each right here: i find them very handy...", delivered with a big smile. Flies, honey, etc. etc.
Point 2: every generation feels some hostility towards their elders for "ruining the world", or whatever. Only time will tell if the current generation actually goes forward with their ideals and helps change the world for the better, or if the majority of them will be co-opted by the system and end up being accused by the generation after the next of also "ruining the world".
As I recall, issues about the "environment" weren't even in the public consciousness until the early 70's. I seem to remember a group referred to as "hippies"? Who were a big part of bringing this issue to light with that whole "back to the land", "respect Mother Earth" type lingo?
Human consciousness is evolving, and each generation has a part to play. I don't think that part should involve pointing fingers at the older generation as if they were one monolithic block who can be blamed for all the problems of the day.