Raping the earth, like raping women, is an act of violence. Violent acts, in consumer society, are often mechanical reactions to other acts of violence; brutality begets brutality.

Breaking the chain of violence in consumer society means curbing demand, and curbing demand requires exercising restraint–learning to do without the commodities that require violence to obtain.

Exiting consumerism is a bold act of independence, requiring strength of character and self-discipline. Making ourselves strong enough to resist the propaganda of advertising is key to healing the earth, our society and ourselves.