Strange as it might seem, we can actually take the basic drives behind consumerism and turn them around to pursue the Buddha's path. This is not only possible, it is crucially necessary to reduce the rising suffering in the world caused by our mindless consumer habits. As we replace the acquisitive mode with the contemplative mode, we will be in a "win-win-situation," overcoming our own suffering and dissatisfaction and at the same time helping to reduce the cause of others' suffering.

Ruben L. F. Habito, Hooked! by Stephanie Kaza, editor