MATERIALISM

The Material Self

Overview of the Concept

• Albert Einstein's Philosophy:

  • "A simple and unassuming manner of life is best for everyone, both for the body and the mind."

  • Suggests the value of simplicity in life, impacting both physical health and mental well-being.

William James' Definition of the Self

• Concept of Self:

  • Encompasses everything an individual can claim as their own.

  • Includes both material and non-material aspects:

    • Body

    • Psychic powers

    • Clothes

    • House

    • Family

    • Friends

    • Reputation

    • Possessions (e.g., land, yacht, bank account)

• Material Self:

  • Refers to all objects, people, and experiences deemed essential to one’s identity.

  • Emphasizes things identified as "mine" or "my."

Components of the Material Self

• The Body:

  • Fundamental facet of the material self.

  • Adolescents often face challenges in accepting physical appearance; generally, girls are more impacted than boys.

  • Media plays a significant role in shaping beauty standards and perceptions.

• Clothes:

  • Serve as a representation of self-identity, especially crucial during adolescence.

  • Heavily influenced by peer groups and societal norms.

Possessions and Relationships

• Possessions:

  • Include tangible items such as houses, cars, pets, etc.

  • Significant in shaping one’s identity and perception of self.

• Relationships:

  • Connections with family, friends, and pets greatly influence self-identity.

  • Pets can symbolize social status and enhance personal pride.

Role of Material Possessions in Identity

• Material possessions are pivotal in shaping individual self-concept.

• They often symbolize:

  • Social status

  • Success

  • Personal achievement

• Items like cars, houses, and gadgets are valued not only for their practicality but also for their ability to impress others.

• According to Russell Belk (1988):

  • Material possessions mirror the self, showcasing hard work and accomplishments.

Negative Effects of Materialism

• Materialism:

  • Places higher priority on possessions than intangible values.

  • Excessive craving for material goods can lead to:

    • Psychological problems (e.g., Compulsive Buying Disorder (CBD))

    • Shopping obsessions with detrimental outcomes.

Consumer Culture

• Definition:

  • A societal system where commercial product consumption shapes cultural values and relationships.

  • Characterized by the extensive use of marketing symbols to stimulate desires and drive consumption.

Consumerism

• Definition:

  • Pertains to the overconsumption of goods/services beyond basic needs, often linked with materialism.

• Positive Aspects:

  • Addressing needs and wants can foster happiness and motivation.

• Negative Aspects:

  • Encourages unnecessary expenditures, breeds endless wants, potentially leading to dissatisfaction and mental health issues such as unhappiness and depression.