Does Buying Green Make Us Less Altruistic?
In a recent study published in Psychological Science, it was found that buying green products can often lead to having “questionable behavior” in other aspects of our lives. The study even concluded htat it may lead to a person who may steal or lie more often.
On the surface, this study may seem like it is attacking the average green consumer. Just because we are buying green products doesn’t make us any better of a person. In the words of the author of the study Nina Mazar who is also a green consumer:
At the end of the day, if we do one moral thing, IT doesn’t necessarily mean we will be morally better in other things as well.
In fact, purchasing green products does not make us morally any better in other parts of our lives. It does not give us the right to brag to others or degrade others that do not do the same. Instead, we should strive to do more acts to help the betterment of mankind and the environment. We should also not talk down to others, but provide information to others as to how it will help make their lives better.
You know my view, now what you do think about this study?
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This study is not surprising. I see this kind of behavior all the time. Too many think that being green makes them better than others. The classic examples are the bike riders who look down on drivers for polluting.
Yaa it’s true.. I have came across such people..they always brag about being ” green”. Nina Mazar is right, we can’t force other but atleast make them aware by providing information.
For those who are really green, living solar, growing food, building Earthships and Straw Bale houses, driving small engined or hybrid vehicles and having one child, the altruism is for future generations. I have a hard time believing the study included really green living people. I don’t believe people who care so much for the biosphere and future generations would stoop to stealing. I know that I wouldn’t and I was not questioned for the survey.
Some bike riders and vegan types may be that way, but are they really totally green in their life?
Mike: I completely agree with you. Most individuals that do the array of things you mention usually are much more humble about their acts. It sounds like the survey targeted anybody who purchases “green” products more than those who live green lifestyles. I would assume this survey is talking about the average person that buys at local natural good stores and thinks they are saving the world.