Economics and Societal Attitudes

After reading several articles on the “credit crisis” hitting our economy, I wonder how much of it is due to the economic attitudes we have today. Compare how things are now compared to just after World War II:

• How many people reuse containers (coffee cans, bread bags, grocery bags, etc.) versus those who buy disposable plastic containers and use them once?
• How many people (who have the resources) attempt to grow their own fruits and vegetables versus those who just buy them at the grocery store?
• How many people save leftovers versus throwing them out?
• How many people replace rather than repair items (TVs, tires, DVD/VCR players, doors, clothing, etc.)?
• How many people save money for things (computers, TVs, clothing, trips, etc.) cersus those who buy now and pay leter with credit cards?

In what areas of your life, do you waste money and/or finance items which you could pay cash for?