Perspectives: Black Friday 2021
Summary from the AllSides News Team
Black Friday 2021 was unique, happening alongside global supply chain disruptions, a prolonged global shortage of microchips, worldwide high inflation, the discovery of the new “omicron” coronavirus variant, and the year’s steepest daily drop in the Dow Jones Industrial Average. Additionally, previously high oil prices started dropping this week, thanks in part to several countries’ release of strategic oil reserves.
Right-rated outlets were somewhat less likely than left- and center-rated outlets to publish opinion articles about Black Friday. While some articles on both sides provided shopping advice, others criticized Black Friday for representing “consumerism.”
Featured Coverage of this Story
From the Center
Here are the five virtues to carry you into Black Friday
Black Friday can provide an odd contrast both with the day before, Thanksgiving, and the forthcoming holiday to which it is directed — the celebration of the birth of Christ.
Capitalism may be the most efficient way to satisfy market needs while reducing prices and increasing efficiencies through competition. But if people don’t temper it with timeless virtues, the result can be devastating.
Think unbridled greed and corruption. Think about the Biblical grinding of the faces of the poor, to paraphrase Isaiah. Think about the opposite of the Christ child, who...
From the Left
Black Friday reminds us that Americans are addicted to buying things
A quick Google search this week showcased many dire warnings that this Black Friday would be one of the worst ever. The supply chain, you see, is all a mess. And the snags up and down the chain are, in turn, messing with that most American of pastimes: buying stuff.
Buyers used to steep discounts starting the day after Thanksgiving may be disappointed this year. Crowded ports and a surge in demand mean many leading retailers have cut back on the traditional price slashes. Those that have been offering sales started much earlier than normal...
From the Center
Black Friday deals? If you didn't shop early there is good reason to wait Black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving, marks the traditional start of the holiday shopping season. But in a year of pervasive supply chain disruptions, we can expect to see higher prices, more competition for hot items, and probably a lot of late bargains. So, my shopping advice is kind of mixed, but keep some of that holiday shopping budget available for late arriving merchandise or sales.
If you shop at many of the big box retailers, you will probably find lots of goods available, although the product selection on display...
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