[karjaluoto]

We're in a culture filled with people wanting to stick out and be noticed. That's part of our collective problem.

[zalew]

what's the problem exactly?

[karjaluoto]

"Being special" is an ego need. While it may feel good, we need form our lives around considerations other than our base desires.

There are really practical concerns that arise from this, as I noted with the global inequities that surface. By only thinking of ourselves, others live crummier lives.

In principle, this is a dismal notion. Meanwhile, such imbalances will come back to haunt us.

As the "haves" we need to start asking what our responsibilities are to the "have nots." If not because it's the right thing to do, from a perspective of self preservation.

[jmjerlecki]

What if by having a desire to be "special" one was able to create wealth for himself and many others and was able to make a big difference in the world. I find your viewpoint to be flawed.

[karjaluoto]

Creating wealth in itself isn't that admirable.

Making a difference in the world is.

The two aren't connected as often as us entrepreneurs like to believe, though.

[karjaluoto]

One part of the world uses up most of the (rapidly diminishing) resources, because everyone wants to be special.

[jmjerlecki]

What is wrong with wanting/encouraging someone to be special?

[zalew]

are we running out of denim, cotton wool and polyester?

btw 'the west' is not the only part of the world where clothes have a meaning.