Why does consumption increase even in a recession?


The western lifestyle does not seem to change, not even in bad times. Is this an effect of this so-called consumption society? Maybe it is so. A recession as such implies that the people’s economy becomes worse and therefore the consumer habits changes. But, apparently this is not the case in Sweden.
How can we explain that consumption increases in a recession? My opinion is that the people, in general, do not believe that we really are going through big economic crises. Of course, the person who has experienced this by losing his/her job or similar, may be of other opinion. But in general, I believe that most of us continue spending money as if the recession does not concern us. To experience a real economic crisis means that our welfare is extremely threaten, which seems not to be the case today. People can still afford the most of things they wish for. Maybe, we don’t go and by the newest car of the latest model, but we are going to by a car if we want to. Maybe, we don’t go and by a house, but we could if we really wanted to. Maybe, we don’t go and by three pair of shoes this month, but we are going to by two pairs of shoes! My point, however, is that the term recession has many different definitions in different countries. Or, what is most probable is that the recession has affected us all in one way or another, but with great differences between the countries.
I do believe though, that some consumer habits have changed in our part of the world. This includes mostly luxury articles. My opinion is that consumers don’t spend a lot of money buying expensive food and are not paying visit to expensive restaurants as often as before. Also, I think that some people may have changed their habits regarding transportation. Since the petrol has become more expensive, people seek cheaper solutions and takes train and bus instead of driving their own car. But, otherwise, people keep spending their money. Nevertheless, spending money in bad times might stimulate the economy. This means that the demand increases and the production in turn.
To sum up, I think that we actually are not living in tough times. Therefore the reason why people continue consuming. Another reason could be however that the consumption stimulates the economy. Regardless, our lifestyle does not change, for now.

Assignment 1


1. Define the term “style” in the context of (academic) writing.

Style in the academic world would mean a specific way of formal writing. The use of language is more complex, for example correct use of grammar and adequate language, in other words, the use of slang and personal language is very inappropriate.

2. Formal and informal writing.

I have chosen the following texts:

“I learned from my children’s karate classes that the elbow is the strongest point on your body. If you are close enough to use it, do! If you are ever thrown into the trunk of a car, kick out the back taillights and stick your arm out the hole and start waving like crazy. The driver won’t see you but everybody else will. This has saved lives.”

Tips on Staying Safe…for Women
http://powertochange.com/s/33/tags/health/


“Most competence for action in the field of health is held by Member States, but the EU has the responsibility, set out in the Treaty, to undertake certain actions which complement the work done by Member States, for example in relation to cross border health threats, patient mobility, and reducing health inequalities.”

Health strategy
http://ec.europa.eu/health/ph_overview/strategy/health_strategy_en.htm

The first text from above is a type of informal writing. The everyday use of language and personal opinion makes it informal, while the second one, on the other hand, is type of formal writing. The other difference between the texts is that they are intended for different readers.


3. Two very short texts

Formal:

“Study abroad gives you a great educational opportunity. Students can choose among a wide range of courses in a variety of disciplines. Beside the education the students are also given the opportunity to explore the culture of a certain country.”

Informal:

“Study abroad is a really cool experience. Not only have I improved my English, but have seen the world through other glasses. I managed to pass my courses and have had a great time with my new friends, partying, travelling and just hanging out.”

Testing...