Preview: Righteous Retail

In a somewhat paradoxical move, many retailers are not encouraging consumers to shop until they drop. On Black Friday, the kick-off sales event of the season, retailers such as REI closed their doors and urged people to partake in productive activities rather than the yearly retail rampage.

Others, including ethical online retailer Zady, are taking a careful approach to discounting, creating campaigns and displays that promote considerate consumption and thoughtful gift-giving.