The following text is from the back cover:

At one time or another we have all experienced that sudden, all-consuming desire for a material object that is so strong it seems we couldn't possibly be happy without it. Yet, when we give in to that intense impulse, we are often frustrated and empty. It is this feeling of being "hooked" that advertisers bank on when selling us products. And, from a global perspective, it is this same feeling that fuels our rampant consumption, which is having a devastating impact on the world's economy and environment. Here, some of the most well-respected Buddhist teachers explore our seemingly endless drive to acquire -- and offer practical ways to combat consumerism on a personal and global level.