Yes, if you want to battle with people for some mediocre bargains, you can save some money. I mean realistically, the people reading this blog are reasonably physically fit males between the ages of 20-40 so don’t really have anything to worry about shopping on black friday… if someone messes with you in line you will probably be able to give as good as you get. Yes, if you are reading this block, you are probably of the demographic that you can throw that 40 year old woman out of the way with one hand to be the first to get the deal on that TV. Congratulations.

The thing is, is pushing people around worth the $200 or so you will save? Basically, when it comes to the cheapest items, it is survival of the fittest, and if you are reading this blog you probably fall into the “fittest” category. But, for me, it isn’t worth saving $200 on a television to become a wild animal and have to struggle with other people. I mean, how much do pro boxers make? How much money are UFC fighters paid? If you want me to struggle with other people to be at the front of the line, I am going to need to save a bit more than a couple hundred dollars, you know what I mean?

Really, things are so damn cheap in North America, that no-one living there really needs to shop on Black Friday. They can shop on any other day of the year, and still be saving more money than most people in the industrialized world. I find it terrifying that one of my favorite, least commercialized holidays, which is all about having appreciation and respect for how lucky and blessed we all are and spending time with our families, is exploited to become the crassest of consumer experiences.

I am in no way one of these hippy folks who hate on all forms of commercialism. Personally, I love capitalism and commercialism. Which is why, when I am frightened by Black Friday (which I am), you had better be scared. I will pay $200 more, and keep my dignity, thanks. Black Friday, no thanks!!!