There is a time for rationalizing. And that time is all the time. At least, where retail is concerned. Because if you can even loosely associate what you’re buying with something that’s fundamentally good, then you can start pulling the trigger on some spectacularly irresponsible purchases. This is easier with some things than others. If you buy an expensive bicycle helmet, you can always say it’s for safety. That’s a layup. But a $150 Gitman Brothers oxford button-down presents a bigger challenge. Sure, it’s made with the same amazing 2X1 heavy oxford cloth that Gitman has been using since 1978, fabric woven from parallel yarn that gets softer with every wash, but remains totally indestructible. But none of that is as compelling as the helmet argument. To justify a buck fifty for a button down, you need something more powerful. Enter Made in America. When something is manufactured here, a bunch of good things happen. Things even better than self-softening fabric. Jobs are created. Fair labor practices are ensured. EPA regulations are followed. And the whole economy benefits. Because every dollar in final sales of manufactured products supports $1.40 in output from other sectors of the economy. Looked at this way, it’s not just you needing that Gitman. It’s the whole country, needing you to need it. And NOT buying it is about the most selfish thing you could ever do.