Erm, making merit is certainly not a new teaching - its actually very old (older than Buddhism in fact). It is part of Karma, which existed in earlier Indian religions. Its an attempt to 'balance' ones Karma, make merit to make up for the bad that we do - perhaps like dropping a coin in the collection box in a Christian church - or maybe even confession, swapping prayers for sins (which is more confusing to me than fining ourselves and doing some good with that fine, for our faux pas?).

I think you get more 'fleeced' in the UK, where everything is more expensive - petrol (one of the most expensive in the world!), DVDs, CDs, cars, electronic goods, food, you name it, its more expensive in the UK than in the USA or Europe (including things that are made in the UK!). At least in Thailand, bartering is still acceptable (and you are not made to feel ashamed and defiled for attempting it) and indeed is even expected.

Also, senior Monks will be called something akin to father (long por) not excellency, that kind of pride is left for the Christians.

"Whatever you do, just do it by heart" - I guess this is within the sentiment of "follow your conscience" - I would suggest this about following the middle way, rather than allowing yourself to be ripped off. Buddhism teaches impermanence, the cost to your karma for the pride (loss of face) that you were diddled or the bad thoughts (improper thoughts and feelings) you harbour towards the perpetrator, is always more important than financial/material loss, it will be lost anyway at some point (you can't take it with you when you die).

A true Buddhist would never 'fleece' you anyway, if s/he did, then it's their karma that takes a bashing, putting a dent in yours too serves no purpose and is unlikely to get your money/goodies back.