By which we generally mean that a lot of wealth creates a lot of influence. This is true in aggregate as well.

Lots of individuals create influence using even small amounts of discretionary spending power, when those small amounts go into one pot. When we concentrate wealth in certain brands, we empower that brand to pursue its own agenda. That agenda might look like concern for the consumer – low prices and great delivery service – but does that stand up to scrutiny under close examination?

Is what’s good for individual consumers actually a bad thing for society as a whole?

Every vote counts. Whether it’s with coin or for a political party. Are your every day spending habits in step with your expressed intent at the ballot box?