Originally posted by dlh You're right, it's not unethical, it's immoral. And I am repelled by the practice. I find it repulsive. I don't do it. I try to support local business where I can, but that does not extend to "big-box stores" or mega-chains. There's a guy who has a shoe store on the main street in a nearby town (in fact, the name of the street is, "Main Street"). I buy shoes from him. They cost extra, but that extra enables that guy to feed his family and pay his taxes. Now if you're living on public assistance, I can see buying everything from Wal-Mart's online store based on local shopping. But if you are blessed with the resources to support others around you in their honest work, then I think it's a good idea to do it. Better that than giving money to churches, in my opinion.
On what grounds is it immoral? It is not immoral to do it in the large store, but is immoral to do to the small? How does THAT work?
It isn't our job to keep the local store in business, unless we want to continue to see the local business. However, if you want to make it your business, that is your business.
But it isn't inherently the public's job. Once you enter the business, it is their job to convince you spending your money there is your best option. The better shops will find a way, even if you are buying at a premium over online. Of course if you are going into the store with zero interest to buy there
and are wasting staff time that is a whole different situation imo (big or small business).
Regardless of your beliefs, I hope you can see the churches local to you do far more for your community than you're doing giving 10-20% extra for your business. Things such as house repairs for elderly and low income, soup kitchens/food banks, support groups, financial management classes, support for domestic abuse counseling/shelters and care for abused children, etc etc etc...