[rmxt]

Just to bring the analogy back to tech... when, if ever, do you think you'll feel the same way about Apple/Google/Microsoft/etc. regarding "relentless market, shareholder dividends, and large corporate salaries"? How do we get the equivalent of "variety and depth of flavor" when products and services converge towards mediocrity (or disregard for end user privacy, or any other complaint du jour)? (Note: I do not know if any or all of the corporate cruft complaints apply to the tech companies mentioned.)

I agree with you, in that spending money on quality products is "voting with your wallet," and overall, a good idea.

[canvia]

I already do feel that way regarding technology (and consumerism in general). I think that by supporting FOSS such as Linux and the Mozilla backed projects you can vote for variety and innovation with both your time and money. I will happily switch from an iPhone to a Firefox OS based phone once a high end model is available.

Be the change that you wish to see in the world.