Why Buy?

So, there I was: weighing the relative merits of two types of Tupperware (I mean that generically; neither was actually Tupperware). One was the right size and price, but unattractive. The other was the wrong size and more expensive, with an unexpected heft that felt good in my hands.

I bought the latter.

According to Lee Eisenberg, author of Shoptimism:Why the American Consumer Will Keep on Buying No Matter What, I am a "romantic buyer," instinctively drawn to the unexpected, to "thingness."

In other words, I have an aesthetic imperative that cannot be denied.

Yep, I thought: that's me.

I bought a marvelous-looking robin egg blue lemon reamer a few weeks ago. Even though I already own a perfectly serviceable, though plain-looking, wooden one.

I'm a sucker for looks.

Eisenberg says of this about collecting and collectors: It may not be the most direct means of healing wounds but it serves well enough.

Thought-provoking stuff to someone who has loved collecting since she was a kid. And who has several collections on display as an adult.

He also defines "buy scolds" and "buy polars." Turns out you either are one or you know one.

Regardless of what you buy or what you sell, this is fascinating reading.

http://www.amazon.com/Shoptimism-American-Consumer-Buying-Matter/dp/0743296257/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1276057705&sr=8-1-catcorr.