A new twenty first century society is emerging which lives differently, thinks differently, and acts differently from the aggressive, egotistical consumerism of the past.

Several long term mega trends are combining with short term events to create a new consumer who will radically change the global economy over the course of the next few decades. What people buy, why they buy, and how they buy will all undergo fundamental change.

Companies will need to radically evolve the way they are organized. Old manufacturing methodology will need to be cast aside along with stereotyped marketing techniques and traditional sales structures. Most importantly, marketers will be forced to address the new values and morals of the twenty first century consumer, or face significant market decline.

Conspicuous consumption will be replaced by a desire for real values which will dominate purchase patterns and consumer behavior.

Consumers will want what is best for themselves, but not at the cost of others. It will herald an Age of Selfish Altruism.

It s a new global morality. It s happening now. And it s happening at a faster pace than expected.