Paper or Plastic?

My very first job was a bagger at Byerly's food store.  For $5.60 per hour (just a little above minimum wage at the time), I took the bus after school and bagged groceries to help pay for driver's ed classes (my mom held the policy that if I wanted to drive, I'd have to pay for every bit of the process).  During orientation we were taught to ask the question "paper or plastic?"  This may not sound weird to those of you who have heard this many times over, but they actually told us there was psychology behind it!  Apparently, when given a choice, people are compelled to pick the second option if indecisive.  So, at 3 cents per plastic bag and 5 cents per paper bag, Byerly's was training us to save them money with this simple trick.  I know there is debate on which option is worse for the environment, but I personally feel more comfortable picking paper if I do not have reusable bags with me.  I use it to hold my recyclable items at home, and therefore recycle the bag in the process. I know plastic bags are also recyclable, but the paper just feels more organic...  Anyway, I recently bought several Envirosax off of a deal website (check out: http://babyhalfoff.com/index.php/Envirosax-Reusable-Shopping-Bags-?___store=default if you wish to purchase some at a great price), and was surprised when they arrived and were the size of my fist.  They have very cute designs and are barely heavier than a standard plastic bag.  At first I was put off by this, thinking it was sort of a rip off, but now I see the beauty of being able to stuff three or four into my purse to use when needed.  I assure you, I'm not reimbursed for promoting any items at all on here, and my main goal is to buy less, but sometimes things are worth buying if they ultimately help you live more sustainably and will save you money in the future!