| The Film ‘Consumed’ Explores the Psychology Behind Environmental Destruction |
| Monday, 19 September 2011 | Rick Theis | Review |
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The film first confirms what we should all know: excessive consumption by a rapidly expanding human population is causing extensive and irreparable harm to our planet. In this regard, it considers consumerism a mental illness in that it takes a large amount of our time and energy, but we get very little out of it. It also rightly compares humans to a cancer upon the Earth. It then examines what in human nature causes us to demand so much more than we need—at the expense of destroying the environment and thus reducing our chances of surviving as a species. Its conclusion is that this pathology is a result of our big brains and what they require to operate optimally. As Maslow’s pyramid illustrates, we humans first concern ourselves with our survival needs, including air, food, water and protection from predators. Once these are satisfied, we look to find a mate, make social connections, express our creativity, etc. In our first-world post-industrial society, our basic needs are met. But no matter how secure we are, we are not happy. Our brains become bored without new challenges and games to play. Advertisers recognize this and use it to manipulate us into buying things we don’t need. They appeal to our extra- and quasi-survival needs, such as pursuit of status—quite a game. In essence, they convince us to be “ardent narcissists.” We are drawn to associate with brand names that instantly bestow status upon us. They make us believe (the film says it’s a false belief) that this opens doors for us to power, wealth and a better mate—nice rewards. Unfortunately, because our society is set up to provide for our needs indirectly, we lose touch with nature and so fail to comprehend the scope of the environmental degradation our overconsumption is causing. The film argues that all of this is a natural stage in human evolution, a stage we will transcend as we are drawn to reconnect with the Earth, realize how we are negatively impacting it and reduce our consumption. This is the only leap of faith this otherwise fact-based documentary makes. Let’s hope the filmmakers are right in their belief because our current path is wholly unsustainable. This entertaining and educational film has high production values and moves through its 52 minutes at a brisk pace. It seamlessly interweaves stock film, new footage and interviews with experts to make its case. You can view the trailer, watch the film in its entirety ($5) and order a copy on DVD ($8) at the Consumed website. It may cause you to think before you make your next purchase: ‘Do I really need this?’ Additional film reviews: Additional resources:
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There are some refreshing things about the new ecology documentary, Consumed. For one, it avoids hyperbole and deals primarily with just the facts. For another, it doesn’t single out corporations as the sole cause of environmental destruction. Instead, it places the blame squarely on the shoulders of the consumer—you and me. Obviously, if we didn’t demand more and more products, companies wouldn’t make them. Although it blames us as individuals, it does not demonize us. Its thesis is that we are only doing what comes naturally to us and that, as a species, we will grow out of it. 
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