Affiliate Marketing Secrets

I am an affiliate marketer, and I have the products of the advertisers I sell. An idea would be selling online or even making videos with my show I have and making commercial like ads in between topics in videos. I know these are trying times and money is tight for many, but as a seller, should I feel bad? Should I feel bad for selling products as an affiliate, independent contractor or salesman? Asking for rational comments, not just a simple answer, greatly appreciated!

In 2012 I made $18,000 in self employment income. I am young and have only had 1 real job outside of my home. I was laid off from my last job and needed income fast so I got into affiliate marketing and started making money fast. Soon, I was making more than I thought I would. Recently, I found out that I am suppose to pay taxes on self employment income but I don’t know where to start.
Please help! How much will I owe in self employment tax, federal, state, and penalties all together?
Will I get in big trouble?
How do I go about paying my taxes. I am a little confused so I need as many details as possible.
Thanks!

I prefer to work for myself doing the same thing I did as an employee but now as an independent contractor. The pay rate would be the same. I simply do not want to follow their dress code, be affiliated with the company as an employee, be evaluated by their standards, but my own standards which exceeds their standards, etc.
How would this work and what would be the reservations if any when I inform to company of my preference to be an independent contractor?

I became self employed after an injury this February, and started making enough $$$ to cover my expenses as an Independent Contractor. In November, my self-employment REALLY started earning me quite a lot of dough. I found a niche ONLINE … and I successfully pursue most opportunities – earning quite a bit more than what’s necessary to cover my expenses. I’d like to know what the minimum amount of money earned is for a single Head of Household. I have heard a few different amounts … but would like to put this question out to G.P. (general public) via Yahoo Answers …