We vote with our wallets through every purchase decision that we make (be it at the grocery store, department store, or online businesses). For example: there is only one reason why grocery stores in Hawaii sell mangoes that are imported from Ecuador: people keep buying them. Tropical fruit grows right here on the island, but we can’t blame the stores for supplying what we demand. If we change our ways and only buy local mangoes, however, then they will only sell local mangoes; it’s that simple. If you’re against animal cruelty, for example, yet purchase toothpaste made by a company that tests its products on animals, you’re essentially supporting a cause that you don’t believe in. Remember: your beliefs don’t make you a better person, your behavior does! We vote when we pay for services too, not just products. If you’re against violence but rush to the movie theater to watch the latest violent blockbuster, then more movies that glorify the act of war will be produced, thereby adding more violence to the world.
