New Statesman - The hot look everyone wants

New Statesman - The hot look everyone wants: "In the current climate of fear and uncertainty, acts of charity help us feel better about ourselves. But mixing caring with posing is itself a dangerous business. By Joshua Blackburn

Once upon a time, Britain was a society of conspicuous consumption. Today, as the hangover from Live 8 fades, it is compassion that we flaunt: celebrities launching charities . . . charities creating fashions . . . businesses which simply love to love. Our heritage of Victorian philanthropy has given way to a new culture of caring designed for the consumer age.

For celebrities, consumers and businesses alike, charity is the 'hot look' that everyone wants. We have created a conscience industry that is fast transforming our notion of charity into a lifestyle concept, conveniently packaged and highly desirable. For £1.95, your silicone wristband tells the world, 'I care' - about what, it doesn't always seem to matter."