I was brought up in the pre-liberalization era (pre 1991), also many times referred to as the ration economy. Naturally, lot of our value systems have evolved out of scarcity rather than abundance.
(via IHT) in an article for tips on frugality, look to india. American behaviour is changing. The alien idea of sacrifice is becoming more prevalent. Mothers are forgoing personal shopping to spend on the family, and, according to Consumer Reports, pet owners are depriving themselves before shortchanging their pets. Fourteen percent of Americans are making gifts, not buying them…. read more >>>