http://www.sciencedaily.com/news/science_society/consumerism/ Research news on consumerism and the effect of consumerism on society and the environment. en-us Wed, 11 Nov 2009 19:05:01 EST Wed, 11 Nov 2009 19:05:01 EST 60 http://www.sciencedaily.com/images/logosmall.gif http://www.sciencedaily.com/news/science_society/consumerism/ For more science articles, visit ScienceDaily. http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/10/091021115145.htm A new survey shows widespread consumer interest in buying plug-in hybrid electric vehicles. But the cost of the cars is much more influential than environmental and other non-economic factors as a predictor of purchase probabilities. Tue, 10 Nov 2009 20:00:00 EST http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/10/091021115145.htm http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/11/091109174254.htm Firms with heavy long-term debt that came due amid the nation's recent credit crisis slashed investment more than three times as much as companies whose paybacks ducked the meltdown, a new study found. Mon, 09 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EST http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/11/091109174254.htm http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/11/091104140820.htm Florists and other retailers who sell flowers are helped by a recent study designed to evaluate the differences in floral consumption across consumer groups. "Showing care to others" was found to be a very important value that strongly influenced flower purchases. Researchers also noted that those who bought flowers frequently (heavy users) are more emotionally stimulated by flowers, leading to them to look for more novelty and variety when purchasing flowers. Wed, 04 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EST http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/11/091104140820.htm http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/11/091102171611.htm Shoppers could see lower prices but less variety to choose from as more manufacturers sell directly to consumers through the Internet, according to new research. Mon, 02 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EST http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/11/091102171611.htm http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/10/091022202717.htm Low alcohol consumption is bad for your health in general, according to a new study. Researchers studied the relationship between alcohol consumption and health to test the current theory which suggests improved health is responsible for the link found between low alcohol consumption and increased wages. Fri, 23 Oct 2009 05:00:00 EDT http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/10/091022202717.htm http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/10/091020111618.htm A new study finds that Americans who believe in equality are more-impulsive shoppers. And it has implications for how to market products differently in countries where shoppers are more likely to buy on impulse. Tue, 20 Oct 2009 20:00:00 EDT http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/10/091020111618.htm http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/10/091021100750.htm The number of workers age 65 and older is predicted to increase by more than 80 percent by 2016. In an ongoing study, researchers are examining the financial motivations of older working Americans. New results reveal that older workers spend less money on necessities, including housing and food, and health care than older non-workers. Tue, 20 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EDT http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/10/091021100750.htm http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/10/091014102201.htm If the wife of FBI boss Robert Mueller has warned him not to use internet banking because of the threat of online fraud, then what hope is there for the average Joe? The results of research suggests that more of us are no longer entrusting our finances to virtual accounts. Mon, 19 Oct 2009 11:00:00 EDT http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/10/091014102201.htm http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/09/090929133252.htm An empty store shelf tempts shoppers to buy the next best thing, according to a new study. Tue, 29 Sep 2009 23:00:00 EDT http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/09/090929133252.htm http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/09/090921162156.htm Hummer drivers believe they are defending America's frontier lifestyle against anti-American critics, according to a new study. Fri, 25 Sep 2009 17:00:00 EDT http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/09/090921162156.htm http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/09/090916173341.htm Consumer spending will lag rather than lead the recovery from the current recession, according to one economist. Wed, 16 Sep 2009 00:00:00 EDT http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/09/090916173341.htm http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/09/090904103525.htm Homicide rates are closely linked to the form of political economy that runs a nation, according to a new study. Researchers claim that homicide rates are significantly higher in nations in neo-liberal politics where free market forces are allowed free rein, such as the USA, but are significantly lower in nations governed by social-democratic policies which still characterize most Western European nations. Fri, 04 Sep 2009 00:00:00 EDT http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/09/090904103525.htm http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/09/090902133635.htm A lot of variables come into play when selecting a site for environmental conservation that yields benefits to people nearby such as wildlife needs, species and vegetation uniqueness, and costs to the government or community. When faced with a choice, researchers found that society and the environment can be better off if conservation agents choose sites that are closer to people because people are more willing to financially support something close to them. Wed, 02 Sep 2009 00:00:00 EDT http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/09/090902133635.htm http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/09/090901150953.htm A new report gives clear guidelines on how the government can help businesses "go green." Tue, 01 Sep 2009 00:00:00 EDT http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/09/090901150953.htm http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/08/090831130045.htm Paradoxically, mortality rates during economic recessions in developed countries decline rather than increase, according to a new analysis. Mon, 31 Aug 2009 20:00:00 EDT http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/08/090831130045.htm http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/08/090824182443.htm From giving directions to a stranger to cooking a meal for loved ones, sharing is an essential part of the human experience. A new study unravels the complexities of sharing, and examines how changes in our culture affect sharing. Tue, 25 Aug 2009 17:00:00 EDT http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/08/090824182443.htm http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/08/090811080751.htm Scientists in Germany have discovered a close correlation between over-indebtedness and obesity. According to a new study, over-indebted Germans are more likely to be overweight or obese than the population in general. The authors attribute this to the high cost of a healthy diet, lack of awareness of the availability of cheaper but nonetheless wholesome foods, but most particularly to the psychological and social stress experienced by over-indebted individuals. Fri, 14 Aug 2009 08:00:00 EDT http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/08/090811080751.htm http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/08/090806191934.htm Levels of debt have been associated with an increased risk of being fat. Researchers blame the trend on the high price of healthy food, and a tendency for people worried by debt to comfort eat. Fri, 07 Aug 2009 17:00:00 EDT http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/08/090806191934.htm http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/07/090727081110.htm Why are so many students deep in debt before they finish college, only to take on more debt as they begin their careers? The answer may be found by looking at the social forces that shape the attitudes and behaviors of today's youth -- forces influencing them in ways that will determine their financial success or failure as adults. Mon, 03 Aug 2009 02:00:00 EDT http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/07/090727081110.htm http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/07/090720163749.htm If a salesperson shares a birthday or a birthplace with you, you're more likely to make a purchase, and feel good about it, according to a new study. Wed, 22 Jul 2009 20:00:00 EDT http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/07/090720163749.htm http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/07/090721091826.htm The individual health insurance market is not a viable option for the majority of uninsured adults, a new report from the Commonwealth Fund finds. Seventy-three percent of people who tried to buy insurance on their own in the last three years did not purchase a policy, primarily because premiums were too high. Tue, 21 Jul 2009 00:00:00 EDT http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/07/090721091826.htm http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/06/090615171724.htm You've just won a prize. Would you like to find out what it is right away, or wait until later? A new study in the Journal of Consumer Research says most people are happier waiting. Tue, 16 Jun 2009 17:00:00 EDT http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/06/090615171724.htm http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/06/090615171726.htm What motivates people to rebel against global brands -- or consumption in general? A new study in the Journal of Consumer Research examines the connection between nationalism and the anti-consumption movement in India. Mon, 15 Jun 2009 00:00:00 EDT http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/06/090615171726.htm http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/06/090615171627.htm It's common for retailers to bundle two different products (like razors and blades) together and describe one as free. A new study in the Journal of Consumer Research shows that this strategy leads consumers to devalue the items when they're sold individually. Mon, 15 Jun 2009 00:00:00 EDT http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/06/090615171627.htm http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/06/090615171625.htm Consumer experts have long recommended against buying Extended Service Contracts with products, since they are rarely cost effective. A new study in the Journal of Consumer Research examines the reasons why so many people ignore the experts' advice. Mon, 15 Jun 2009 00:00:00 EDT http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/06/090615171625.htm http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/06/090609133924.htm Research reveals recession will sound death knell on conspicuous consumption. Tue, 09 Jun 2009 00:00:00 EDT http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/06/090609133924.htm http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/06/090601102017.htm A report to be published in the International Journal of Internet Marketing and Advertising reveals that longer, higher quality free music samples engage more listeners and reduce the number of free riders. Mon, 01 Jun 2009 00:00:00 EDT http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/06/090601102017.htm http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/05/090527072907.htm Supermarket shoppers may be encouraged to buy sugar-filled, calorie-rich drinks by discounts and promotions, according to New Zealand research. A study has found healthy drinks were less likely to be discounted in supermarkets. And the amount of the discount was greater on products higher in fat, sugar and energy. Thu, 28 May 2009 02:00:00 EDT http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/05/090527072907.htm http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/05/090527091755.htm A legal loophole is counteracting Canada's ban on direct-to-consumer drug advertising and has exposed Canadians to more than $90 million worth of ads, including those for drugs with life-threatening risks, according to a new study. Tue, 26 May 2009 00:00:00 EDT http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/05/090527091755.htm http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/05/090511101727.htm A study examining more than 500 toy recalls between 1988 and 2007 suggests ways that firms can minimize the business impact of a recall. Mon, 11 May 2009 00:00:00 EDT http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/05/090511101727.htm http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/05/090501191113.htm The U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the Federal Trade Commission are alerting the public to be wary of Internet sites and other promotions for products that claim to diagnose, prevent, mitigate, treat or cure the 2009 H1N1 influenza virus.  The agencies are also advising operators of offending web sites that they must take prompt action to correct and/or remove promotions of these fraudulent products or face enforcement action. Sat, 02 May 2009 05:00:00 EDT http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/05/090501191113.htm http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/04/090420170911.htm Consumers are attracted to crowds in stores, but they are not likely to buy something from a crowded location, according to a new study. Mon, 20 Apr 2009 00:00:00 EDT http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/04/090420170911.htm http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/04/090420141201.htm Faced with growing public health threats from consumption of sugary drinks, experts believe beverage manufacturers, government, schools, worksites and homes must take action to help Americans choose healthier drinks. Mon, 20 Apr 2009 00:00:00 EDT http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/04/090420141201.htm http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/04/090414102644.htm Despite widespread awareness of recent foodborne illness outbreaks and a sense that the number of food recalls is increasing, about half of Americans say that food recalls have had no impact on their lives. Only about 60 percent of the studied sample reported ever having looked for recalled food in their homes, and only 10 percent said they had ever found a recalled food product. Wed, 15 Apr 2009 11:00:00 EDT http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/04/090414102644.htm http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/03/090331101113.htm Medicine packages barrage consumers with information, some required to be "prominent" and "conspicuous." But marketing claims and brand names still overshadow critical fine print on nonprescription medications, researchers found. They examined the effectiveness of two required warnings on over-the-counter medications, specifically their relative prominence and conspicuousness. Tue, 31 Mar 2009 14:00:00 EDT http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/03/090331101113.htm http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/03/090330091609.htm High-deductible health plans are increasingly used by healthy people who are unlikely to incur high medical expenses. But they also end up enrolling many low-income, vulnerable families, finds a new study. Mon, 30 Mar 2009 00:00:00 EDT http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/03/090330091609.htm http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/03/090325170557.htm Researchers in Taiwan seek to identify the consumption value that consumers seek from floral products, while clarifying the context of these values. Consumers from three main cities in Taiwan were compared to those living in rural areas. The researchers concluded "flowers should be marketed to provoke the sensory pleasures of vision, olfaction, and/or texture. Such value adding helps to shape positive experiences, leading to the purchase or use of flowers by consumers." Wed, 25 Mar 2009 00:00:00 EDT http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/03/090325170557.htm http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/03/090318113606.htm In Canada, campaign spending limits for candidates during a federal election are stipulated by the Canada Elections Act. Wed, 18 Mar 2009 00:00:00 EDT http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/03/090318113606.htm http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/03/090316075853.htm The influence children wield over their parents’ purchase decisions at the point of sale is grossly underestimated by parents. According to a new study by consumer researchers twice as many purchases in supermarkets are triggered by children than their parents are aware of. Tue, 17 Mar 2009 08:00:00 EDT http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/03/090316075853.htm http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/02/090223221543.htm Sometimes a high price tag, a label, or an ingredient can lead us to believe that we're purchasing a high-quality item. But what happens if the attribute that attracted us to the product is false or meaningless? A new study examines consumer responses to "biasing cues," features that consumers assume are related to the quality of the item. Sun, 01 Mar 2009 11:00:00 EST http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/02/090223221543.htm http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/02/090223221526.htm When shopping, we often find ourselves choosing between lower- and higher-cost items. But most people make a choice based on the first digit they see, according to a new study. Tue, 24 Feb 2009 17:00:00 EST http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/02/090223221526.htm http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/02/090224133507.htm Almost half of the emission increase in China is due to production of exports, most of it to western countries, according to a new report. Tue, 24 Feb 2009 00:00:00 EST http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/02/090224133507.htm http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/02/090224133030.htm Video advertising in stores is a moneymaker for retailers, but a growing threat to already cash-strapped print and broadcast media, according to a new study. Tue, 24 Feb 2009 00:00:00 EST http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/02/090224133030.htm http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/02/090224133018.htm Fewer than one in four consumers now believe the US food supply is safer than it was a year ago, according to new data from the University of Minnesota's Food Industry Center. Tue, 24 Feb 2009 00:00:00 EST http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/02/090224133018.htm http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/02/090223221537.htm Hybrid products are ubiquitous in today's marketplace: phones with cameras, watch/cameras, MP3 players with GPS systems. How can consumers understand the functions and features of these new products? A new study discovered a technique for helping consumers make sense of the ever-changing product landscape. Mon, 23 Feb 2009 00:00:00 EST http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/02/090223221537.htm http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/02/090223221535.htm That fancy iPod or car with a sunroof might seem appealing when you're about to buy it, but chances are the enjoyment will be short-lived. According to a new study, enjoyment of products decreases over time, but people are not often aware of this process. Mon, 23 Feb 2009 00:00:00 EST http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/02/090223221535.htm http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/02/090223221530.htm Do consumers respond more positively to advertisements that mention time ("Miller Time") or money ("Perfection Has Its Price")? A new study found that mentioning time makes consumers more likely to purchase and enjoy products. Mon, 23 Feb 2009 00:00:00 EST http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/02/090223221530.htm http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/02/090219131305.htm For all of the conveniences of online shopping -- no crowds, easy parking, seemingly endless choices -- it can't always compete with the real thing. At least not yet. A marketing professor said consumers can expect that some of the disadvantages of online shopping will disappear as retailers adapt models from Second Life. Fri, 20 Feb 2009 14:00:00 EST http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/02/090219131305.htm