Sammelpraktiken

Sammelpraktiken, also known as scavenging or scouring, is a survival strategy employed by individuals and groups during times of economic hardship, war, or other crises. This practice involves collecting and assembling various items, often of questionable value or durability, with the intention of selling them for a profit.

The origins of Sammelpraktiken date back to the early 20th century, during the Great Depression. With widespread unemployment and poverty, individuals resorted to collecting discarded goods, such as tin cans, bottles, and scrap metal, to sell for pennies on the dollar. This practice was initially associated with the urban underclass, but soon spread to the general population as people sought ways to make ends meet.

In Germany, during the post-WWII economic miracle, Sammelpraktiken emerged as a distinct phenomenon. Young people, often in their teens, would collect and sell commodities, including household items, electronics, and even entire apartments, with the intention of turning a profit. This practice was frequently associated with the Kiez, or local neighborhood, and became a rite of passage for many young Germans.

Sammelpraktiken can be characterized by a mix of entrepreneurship, opportunism, and scrappiness. While some entrepreneurs have made a successful business out of scavenging, others have faced criticism for exploiting the vulnerable and engaging in illicit activities. The practice has also been associated with poverty, exploitation, and social inequality. Today, Sammelpraktiken continue to evolve, reflecting changing economic conditions, technological advancements, and shifting consumer behaviors.