100Thing.org

For some time I have been thinking of the "next step" for the 100 Thing Challenge, and my larger message about American-style consumerism. Jesse Kelber, an American living abroad, made a comment over at the 100 Thing Challenge FB that has prompted me to dive in. To move forward. In response to my question,

"Why do you suppose there's not a well-known org fighting consumption?"

Jesse responded,

"Because consumption isn't seen by the world at large as a 'problem' that needs groups to fight against it. It's still the cultural norm for societies to aspire to be just like the US...in all ways including over-consumption of resources."

A few weeks ago I thought Bono's New York Times op-ed was a little dramatic. He said,

"The world wants to believe in America again because the world needs to believe in America again. We need your ideas — your idea — at a time when the rest of the world is running out of them."

Sounds like Jesse and Bono are saying the same thing. America, for all its nuts-o problems, is still seen the world over as an example.

This week I had a lengthy email argument with some buddies about David Brooks' op-ed The Nation of Futurity. We disagreed about how much getting rich was an emphasis of early American settlers. It would be hard to disagree, however, that the early settlers, and most all who came after them, saw themselves as moral examples for others to follow. As America was settled and grew in fortune, Americans have believed they are social exemplars.

In our time, Americans have used our fortunes to behave like consumer exemplars.

Time for some fresh creativity. And so, in the spirit of American bombast (hopefully with a healthy dose of humility) I am announcing 100Thing.org. Nothing is there right now. But there will be, soon.

When the time comes, I hope (American or not) you'll consider joining me.

Comments

[Nina Ruth]

I will be first in line! Consumerism is a burden (personally) at this point & something I find especially culturally difficult to stave off here in Southern CA, though, of course it's not limited to a region/culture here...

[ray]

Just wanted to confirm the url. Is it plural at 100things.org?

[guynameddave]

Ray. Nope. It's the singular. 100Thing.org

You'll see something there soon. (E.g. by the end of the year)

[Cole]

You know, for true irony you could sell T-shirts and useless items with the 100Thing challenge. Or just send emails to people who order them saying "You're doing it wrong." :)

[josh]

I will sign up, i have just completed my list!!