An extreme reaction against consumerism in some cases, in others a wish to travel light and work from anywhere in the world, and move home at short notice. A truly alternative lifestyle for the 21C - though I doubt I'd have as much faith in the technology. Or be willing to put myself at the mercy of Microsoft and Google.
But how brave to try!
Blogger Sam Hughes says -
A minimalist lifestyle does not make you a better person. But it may make you happier.
Google 'blogs on minimalism' for more. My favourite is www.mnmlist.com Nice Title?