Tried to go on the site and said it could not be found.  Anyway, they must be very passionate about their beliefs to live such a life.  I wonder though if it is better to be a part of society and try to make change rather than opt out?  Do freegans have employment?  I think if we want a better world, we need to be part of the solution.

So are they living on welfare, which as you know is governent regulated? 

i know a guy who told me that he was freegan a few years ago...he didn't go into that much depth on the subject, but said he was homeless and broke and would dig through dumpsters behind restaurants for food. i'm pretty sure he wasn't living on welfare (i don't even know how he got back on his feet, to be honest.), but i'm assuming if someone's doing it because of their own morals they won't accept welfare checks.

it would be nice to not worry so much about money...sometimes i feel like i'm under the power of it, since it influences pretty much everything i do. it sucks, but then again, so would having to get your dinner from the trash.

Don't you just think it is a cop out to walk away from society and not try and do something to improve it?  I cannot imagine living like that and especially if you have a family.  How are they trying to change things, it seems that they are just hangin out trying to make a statement.

so.... people actually wanting to live like this?

 

it doesn't seem to make sense, excluding yourself from society completely to make a statement. i mean, no protesting or anything, just not doing anything. it doesn't seem like a very good way of bringing about change.

We all seem to agree on this point.  I wonder what differentiates a homeless person from a freegan?

Ok, guess I'll be the one to step out and say it... homeless people usually have mental health, drug, or alcohol issues. After reading the freegan site........ well, seems like to me that they don't want "retailers" to profit but don't mind profitting from retailers.  Ok, so something is in a retailers garbarge can (among others), does that mean that it didn't take energy or money in order to produce the thrown away item? Still must have some use, even if it is for barter (one use according to the freegan site).  I don't quite buy into their reasoning.  Here's my reasoning: yes, I try to be as green as possible, I try to help others, but I also believe that we are to help ourselves, which means if I'm able to work, I need to work.  Not that everyone believes in God or the bible but it does say if a man doesn't work don't let him eat.  I believe that is in reference to an able body person. I work hard for a living (not for just me but also paying taxes to help those who can't help themselves). I am a cheerful giver. My goal is not to be rich or materialistic. My goal is to be a productive, green, sharing & caring citizen.  My goal is not to be a free loading moocher. Not my intent to offend, just speaking my open, honest mind.

Appreciate the honesty.  I too believe that if we are able to contribute to society we should and so our fair share of work.  Even on a commune, everyone pitches in to help the whole community.  Homeless people are most likely to be mentally ill, but a freegan seems a bit too.