Counterfeit Handbags and Terrorism
In most major cities in the world, there is an active and highly
profitable shadow economy in phony consumer goods that generates
(in some estimates) upwards of 500 billion dollars a year. If
have ever been down to "Counterfeit Alley" in midtown Manhattan,
you have seen one of the biggest counterfeit marketplaces in the
world. While many of us spend our waking hours lusting after the
latest fashion designs from our favorite designers, there are a
lot of people out there who purchase knock-off or phony items
without fully appreciating the consequences.
I recently read a book called "Knockoff", written by a fellow
named Tim Phillips. It was an insightful read, with a number of
interesting and often disturbing ideas presented. I was
particularly interested in the section he devoted to the trade
in phony luxury items such as designer handbags. These days, it
seems I can't go anywhere without seeing somebody carrying a
fake Prada or Gucci purse. Personally, I have always resisted
the urge to purchase a counterfeit purse. I have avoided the
temptation mainly because such an action only undermines an
industry I have grown to love. When one considers the price of
some of the higher-end purses, it should come as no surprise
that some people purchase fakes.
What will surprise you is the discovery that their money is
supporting future terrorist attacks in America and abroad. This
book has confirmed my belief in supporting legitimate companies.
Have you ever stopped to consider where the money you spend on
fake consumer products ends up? This book will provide you with
some frightening insights. The "black market" in counterfeit
consumer goods provides incredible resources for criminal
organizations, and these organizations certainly do not have the
public interest at heart.
One of the most disturbing ideas in the book was the suggestion
that terrorist organizations, working with organized crime
groups, use the profits gained from these illegal sales to
support future attacks. I could not sleep at night if I thought
I was supporting terrorist campaigns to maim and kill innocent
civilians in America, or anywhere else for that matter. I am a
firm believer in being a conscientious shopper, and supporting
companies that are trying to make the world a better place. I
will gladly pay three times the price of a phony purse, to
ensure that my money is not supporting terrorism. Check out
"Knockoff" when you have a chance. It is a real eye-opener.