CONSUMERISM

Question 1

What is Consumerism?

Answer 1

An organized effort by individuals, groups and the governments to help
protect consumers from policies and practices that infringe their rights to fair
business practices.

Question 2

What are the four basic rights of consumers?

Answer 2

The right to be informed, the right to choose, the right to safety and the right to be heard.

Question 3

What are the reasons why consumers need to be protected?

Answer 3

1. unsafe and poor quality products
2. misleading price reductions and false sales
3. false claims about products
4. insufficient goods for their money
5. unfair treatment when faulty goods are returned, etc.

Question 4

What are the ways that the government can ensure that consumers safety and well-
being are protected?

Answer 4

1. by supervising hire purchase and credit control, etc.
2. by educating and advising consumers through pamphlets, radio and TV programmes
3. through the introduction of penalties for producers and sellers who show lack of regard for consumers
4. by passing legislation or laws that ensure consumer protection, example Processed Food Act, Public Health Act, The Food and Drug Act and The Sale of Goods Act
5. by the control and supervision of prices
6. by enforcing fair trading practices
7. by setting up consumer protection agencies such as the Bureau of Standards, the Consumer Affairs Commission and the appointment of an
   Ombudsman.

Question 5

What is an Ombudsman?

Answer 5

A government appointed person who is charged with investigating
malpractices, maladministration and injustices brought to his/her notice by the public. Many governments have such a person to investigate consumers’ complaints.

Question 6

What is

Answer 6

A government appointed person who is charged with investigating malpractices, maladministration and injustices brought to his/her notice by the
public. Many governments have such a person to investigate consumers’ complaints.