The New Dream Blog
In our blog, we feature stories, tips, and commentary from contributors around the world on topics ranging from
consumerism and parenting to how to live a fuller life with less. Enjoy!
Interested in contributing a guest post? Please review our submission guidelines.
Consumerism, Values, and What Really Matters: An Interview with Tim Kasser
by Lisa Mastny | July 29, 2011
Psychologist Tim Kasser describes his work on materialism and values, and how he’s tried to resist consumer pressures in his own life.
How I Helped a D.C. Neighborhood Go Solar
by Anya Schoolman | July 29, 2011
The inspiring story of one neighborhood that was so frustrated with the national and local government that residents took matters into their own hands.
How to Stage a Clothes Swap
by Regan McMahon, courtesy of Shareable.net | July 25, 2011
At these friendly social gatherings, one person’s discard is another one’s treasure.
Office Space: Thinking Beyond the Lonely Cubicle
by Amy Curtis | July 25, 2011
Offices don't have to be isolating places that segregate and restrict.
U.N. Supports Happiness as a Development Goal
by Lisa Mastny | July 25, 2011
A new U.N. resolution urges countries to consider happiness and well-being when developing public policies.
Voluntary Simplicity: Reimagining the Good Life Beyond Consumer Culture
by Lisa Mastny | July 22, 2011
A new analysis of "voluntary simplicity" dispels some common criticisms that it is an escapist, hippie, or leisure-expansion movement.
Chris Jordan: Paparazzi of Garbage
by Amy Curtis | July 13, 2011
Jordan's work captures a reality that’s all too easy for consumers to ignore: that waste multiplies, rapidly.
Ideas Worth Spreading: Be Inspired by TED
by Amy Curtis | July 13, 2011
These 10 video presentations provide hope, inspiration, and knowledge that although people can damage the Earth, they also have the potential to save it.
Is Your Life Too Plastic? Help Your Town "Bag It
by Lisa Mastny | July 1, 2011
Learn how you can help wean your community off the plastic bag addiction.
What Is the American Dream? Dueling Dualities in the American Tradition
by James Gustave Speth | June 27, 2011
The story of the pursuit of happiness in America is a story of its close alliance with capitalism and consumerism. But is there another option?
The Happiness Project: Or, Why I Spent a Year Trying to Sing in the Morning, Clean My Closets, Fight Right, Read Aristotle, and Generally Have More Fun
by New Dream | June 24, 2011
A memoir of a year spent test-driving the wisdom of the ages, current scientific studies, and lessons from popular culture about how to be happier.
The Pursuit of Happiness: Toward an Economy of Well-Being
by New Dream | June 22, 2011
In a new book, author Carol Graham explores the promise and the potential pitfalls of injecting the "economics of happiness" into public policymaking.
Get Real: What Kind of World Are You Buying?
by New Dream | June 17, 2011
This teen-friendly manifesto reveals what you're really buying when you spend your money on a burger or a cell phone, and points the way to better choices.
Don't Miss Your Life: Find More Joy and Fulfillment Now
by New Dream | June 16, 2011
The evidence shows that humans are at their happiest when they’re involved in engaging leisure experiences.