Jim Beaux wrote:
Though I prefer to shop local, I also buy online. Bargain hunting is prudent; but that was not the point of the OP. He asked if it is acceptable to use the merchant's MONEY for his own advantage. (which is also to the detriment of the merchant)
The OP doesn't say anything about using merchant's
MONEY for personal advantage...just about going to browse without the intention to buy.
Jim Beaux wrote:
This practice is free loading and it's the antithesis of commerce. It's also a major reason that our country is presently in the shape it is.
It's not freeloading at all. It's an expected and normal part of business. You always have and always will have window shoppers, it's not a new concept and does not catch anyone off guard. There is nothing unethical about it at all. Now where it would cross the line into unethical behavior is if you lied to the worker and presented that you were interested in buying from them. I can't count the number of times I've been in a store and someone has come ask if they could help me and I simply said "No thanks, I'm just browsing." Their universal response is then, "Ok, I'll be over here, let me know if you need anything or have any questions." And sometimes I actually do go get them to ask questions or have them help me in some way...and they are happy to help. It's a part of good customer service.
That's part of business and it will never change...and no one should feel guilty about it (I sure don't!
).
