consumerist

Consumerist is an English adjective and noun used in discussions of consumerism and consumer advocacy. As an adjective, it describes things related to the interests of consumers, or to the system that encourages or emphasizes the purchase of goods and services. As a noun, a consumerist can refer to someone who promotes or defends consumer rights, or, more broadly, to someone who is preoccupied with or oriented toward consumer culture and consumption.

In sociology and journalism, the term often denotes a stance or perspective that foregrounds the rights, protections, and welfare of consumers in markets and business practices. A consumerist viewpoint typically calls for accountability from manufacturers, retailers, and policymakers, along with better information, fair pricing, transparent warranties, and effective remedies for faulty products or services.

The Consumerist is also the name of a notable consumer affairs blog launched in 2005. It reported on consumer issues, including product quality, refunds, warranties, and customer service practices, and frequently featured reader submissions and investigative posts. The site contributed to the broader online ecosystem of consumer advocacy by highlighting problematic business practices and promoting awareness of consumer rights.

See also: consumer protection, consumer rights, consumerism, consumer advocacy.