It is no secret that there are a lot of anti-Starbucks individuals out there, everything from monopolization and mass-corporation mentalities to poor recycling and lack of individuality coupled with sneaky business practices. However, the latest attack on the conglomerate is taking place with regards to fair trade coffees. Indeed, a recent attack on a Starbucks store resulted in a front door shattered by a brick which bore the message “fair trade, not free trade” thus bringing to mind a whole new slew of reasons we must always be careful where we choose to bring our patronage.

This event also raises the question of whether or not this sort of physical damage and visible reaction of anger is a good way to go about getting one’s message and opinion across. Anti-Starbucks individuals, although seemingly massive, are still undeniably dwarfed by those who do not understand the implications that a business as large as Starbucks possesses, and those who will forever insist that Starbucks is a shining example of the American Dream. The debate rages on, but you as a consumer simply need to educate yourself about the places you shop and the things you buy.  Make up your own mind regarding such things as this massive corporation of Starbucks.