In "The Ghost in the Shell Vol. 1," author Shirow Masamune explores the impact of consumption-driven lifestyles, suggesting that they contribute to significant hardships in poorer nations. The quote highlights the moral implications of prioritizing material wealth and consumerism, which can lead to exploitation and suffering in less affluent countries.

Masamune emphasizes that this focus on consumption perpetuates inequality and can be viewed as a violent act against those who are already marginalized. By advocating for a reconsideration of values, the work calls attention to the need for empathy and a more sustainable approach to living that respects the well-being of all societies.