The Big Story

How consumer rage defines Canadian politics

Oct 28, 2024

Ira Wells, a Toronto-based journalist for The Walrus, dives into the intriguing world of consumer rage in Canada. He discusses how everyday frustrations—like the price of a beloved sandwich—reflect a broader affordability crisis. Despite reports of improving economic indicators, Canadians feel more anger than relief. Wells explores the historical roots of this rage and how political parties are harnessing it. He questions what it means for future governments if affordability doesn’t improve and highlights the emotional toll inflation takes on people’s lives.

26:20

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Episode guests

Ira Wells

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Quick takeaways

Consumer rage in Canada is driven by contrasting personal experiences of rising prices against improving economic indicators, fueling political discontent.

Historical examples of organized consumer action, like the 'Housewife Revolt,' illustrate the potential for anger to influence political responses and change.

Deep dives

Consumer Rage and Everyday Experiences

Consumer rage has become a prominent issue in Canada, fueled by everyday experiences of rising prices. The discussion highlights the frustration felt by individuals as they encounter increasing costs for routine purchases, such as a $21 sandwich or a $70,000 average car. These everyday expenses act as constant reminders of economic pressures, contributing to a sense of lost control over personal finances. Furthermore, while larger economic indicators may show improvement, the tangible experiences of consumers contradict these trends, leading to heightened frustration and anger.

Intro

2min

The Toll of Rising Prices

5min

The Historical Roots and Modern Expressions of Consumer Rage

4min

Public Sentiment vs. Economic Reality in Canada

11min

Navigating Consumer Rage and Political Responsibility

4min

For our guest, it was a sandwich. For you it might be a box of cereal or a favourite candy bar. It doesn't matter what it is. What matters is that it makes you mad. There are plenty of signs that things are looking up in terms of affordability: Inflation is down and interest rates are declining fast—but somehow none of that is impacting how the economy makes Canadians feel.

How has consumer rage becoming the defining issue of today's political landscape? If it brings down one federal government, what happens to the next one if things don't magically get cheaper? Why do we feel the price of a candy bar more than all the numbers that tell us things are getting better? And how are smart politicians channeling that rage?

GUEST: Ira Wells, Toronto-based journalist writing in The Walrus

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