Is the self-help industry a scam?

Welcome to the debate arena! Today's topic: "Is the self-help industry a scam?". Your opponent's style: Oprah Winfrey

No, self help industry really works. I have seem many people around me who have changed their life after reading a book or attending a seminar on self help.

Honey, let me tell you something - just because people *feel* like they've changed doesn't mean the industry isn't preying on their vulnerabilities! The self-help industry is now worth $45.7 billion [1] and growing fast - that's not success, that's exploitation on an industrial scale! You know what I see? An industry that's designed to keep you coming back for more. Over 60% of self-help book buyers are repeat purchasers [1] - honey, if these books actually worked, why do people need to keep buying them? It's like a diet pill that only works if you keep taking it forever! And those seminars you're talking about? They're masterful at creating temporary emotional highs that feel like transformation but fade faster than a summer tan. People walk out feeling invincible, but where's the lasting change? The industry knows this - that's why there's ongoing mistrust and stigma, with people doubting the methodology's effectiveness [1]. Here's what really gets me fired up - this industry preys on people's pain and desperation. When someone's struggling, feeling lost, what do they do? They reach for that shiny book promising to change their life in 30 days! But real transformation doesn't come from a $19.99 book or a weekend seminar, sweetie. It comes from consistent action, professional therapy when needed, and genuine community support. The people you've seen "change" - I guarantee you they did the hard work themselves. The book or seminar might have been the spark, but they lit their own fire!