[DreamSword]

Don't worry about not asking permission, me personally I think it says alot that you're ultimately looking for the wellness of others via this post.

And yeah, like anything, buying things can most certainly become an addiction, especially in recent times where it's more tempting than ever to buy something just for the sake of buying it due to boredom, loneliness, etc.

Like anything that says "think of the children" though, my response is that it's ultimately on the parents/guardians to teach their children self control and to know when to stop, as well as the difference between a want and a need. Needs should always come first.

Could you interpret these shows being glorified toy commercials as scummy? Sure, but it's not like there isn't any substance behind it. Substance which has only grown as the years have gone on. And unfortunately, selling merchandise is the primary way shows like these survive. Heck, alot of media in general does, whether it be DVD sales, posters, etc. Just kinda how a section of business and the economy works.

I'm not really great at contributing to discussions like these, but again, I appreciate you taking to time to think something like this out!