A Pew Research Center poll released Thursday, April 23, shows that the recession is causing Americans to reassess their ideas about what items are necessities and which are luxuries. For example, in 2006, 68% said that a microwave was a necessity. Now, only 47% do. Also in 2006, 64% said a TV was a necessity. Now that figure is at 52%.

 

 

Divide a sheet of paper into two columns — one labeled "necessity" and one labeled "luxury." Next, look through USA TODAY for products and services mentioned in ads and articles. List each item in the appropriate column. Then, add the products or services that you use regularly to your lists (e.g., an iPod, high-speed Internet, etc.). Finally, imagine that you are an adult who has lost her or his job. Mark off the items on both lists that you would forgo in order to save money. When you come down to it, what are the necessities in life?