Date of Award
Winter 12-14-2021
Degree Type
Honors Project
Additional Department
Finance
Department
Politics, Philosophy, and Economics
First Advisor
Dr. Mark Thomas
Second Advisor
Dr. Vincent Kling
Abstract
The connection between Buddhism and fast fashion is not immediately apparent, nor is it a particularly well-researched area. However, the topic of consumption underlies both topics, relating to each in markedly different ways. Buddhist precepts outline practices of mindful and sustainable consumption within limited means; fast fashion fosters consumption on a massive, global scale. The work of Ernst Friedrich Schumacher, a man with a career in economics that was aided by great concern for the survival and success of humankind, offers clarity to the conversation about Buddhism and fast fashion. He pioneered the field of Buddhist economics, which seeks to maximize human satisfactions by finding the optimal pattern of consumption. By exploring E.F. Schumacher’s Buddhist economics, I will highlight the areas in which fast fashion lacks the “right view.” It is my goal, not only in this paper but also in my life and work, to demonstrate the importance of E.F. Schumacher’s core philosophy — that small is beautiful — with hope to guide the fashion industry onto a better, more sustainable path.
Recommended Citation
McLaughlin, Elizabeth, "Fast Fashion from a Buddhist Perspective" (2021). HON499 projects. 44.
https://digitalcommons.lasalle.edu/honors_projects/44
Included in
Advertising and Promotion Management Commons, Buddhist Studies Commons, Business Law, Public Responsibility, and Ethics Commons, Ethics in Religion Commons, Fashion Business Commons, Fashion Design Commons, Growth and Development Commons, Hindu Studies Commons, Industrial Organization Commons, Marketing Commons, Sales and Merchandising Commons, Social Justice Commons, Technology and Innovation Commons