When the economy looks uncertain, nonessential spending goes out the window. People begin to focus more on their necessary monthly bills in order to shore up finances and prepare for the unexpected.

Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. I research & write on longevity, generational trends & innovation. He (or she) who dies with the most toys wins. Or so the bumper ...

Example of an advertisement that connects the individualist element of self-identity to consumerism. Source: Toyota Scion The world is complicated these days; it has gotten to the point where even ...