Exploitative Economy v. Local Economy

Reading out of my first Wendell Berry book, "The Art of the Commonplace." It's a collection of essays on various topics, but is quite "hard hitting" when he comments about the dominant culture of this modern nation and other "developed" countries. The basic assessment is that through creative energy, those in power have utilized inventions that provide convenience, to exploit people they consider "below" themselves in status. Modern conveniences have separated those who rely on them from the earth, which had for thousands of years proven to be enough sustenance for individuals and their households. Now over-consumption has begun to threaten the existence of earth herself, if not at least humanity. This man marvels at raw creation (nature) and is repulsed over machines and an economy in which we have persuaded ourselves that these modern conveniences are "necessary."