Aren’t we getting borderline policon, here? Look at common sentiments towards other over-populated areas in the world, how they should reduce their birthrates, control their population. Ghandi’s son actually had his goons grabbing people off the streets and sterilizing them. At what point does America stop and realize they have more people than they need, that this group of unwanted are surplus and are forming a third world right in America’s own backyard? When does America start to control its own population growth?
I think the dividing line here is what different ones of us perceive as the attitude or the Main Point being conveyed by the Freegan movement via their website and statements.
I don’t see Lamby or Cowtime or anyone else objecting to recycling or re-use of commodities, or even a more equitable distribution of housing possibilities.
I guess I get a real dogmatic, holier-than-thou vibe from the Freegan spokespeople, and I extrapolate–perhaps inappropriately–that they’re touting their type of foraging lifestyle as a purer way to live.
Anyway, I guess if I’m feeling defensive, it’s because I already believe in supporting fair trade, local agriculture, cleaner energy, affordable housing…many things which feel like the best way toward a better society–and I feel like they’re playing a game of living-simpler one upmanship which discounts the sustainability movements already in place.
But again, Annie, I think overall it’s the vibe that doesn’t suit me. And you’re clearly perceiving and reacting to it in a different way.
But think of all those spare organs and other body parts that could be used to decrease the waiting lists while simultaneously reducing the number of homeless and their impact upon the Earth’s energy resources at the same time. This truly brings home the essence of Reduce, Re-use, Recycle.