Can it Ever be Good to be Materialistic?
This is a question that we all debate at various stages of our lives. The standard answer is that constantly yearning for more materiality is not the answer to our ultimate fulfillment, or even happiness. Research has in fact found that people who are materialistic are more likely to be unhappy and dissatisfied with their lives. This dissatisfaction can often coupled with depression, being self-absorbed and even paranoia. Materialism has become synonymous with material consumerism, and being wasteful, selfish, and debt-ridden. Clearly, this is not a desired state, or that of having a satisfying life.
The New Philosophy
Acquiring and accumulating goods or chattels is no longer given priority by some people, as they look for new and innovative ways to find pleasure. An example is family time, which although at a premium, serves also as an immediate and relevant way to find pleasure. Many fathers have switched the traditional role previously adopted by the female in the family, not always for simply quality time as financial reasons may dictate. However, the importance and pleasure derived from family and friends is now more valued.
Materialism was previously undertaken by visiting the High Street or shopping centre. However, we are now adept in shopping across the Internet, which is much more about relationship building and branding. Loyalty is being built between the consumer and brand, with more focus on what the brand stands for, and how the consumer benefits from shopping with that business. People are now looking to form social links to their favourite brand and shops, with the ability to directly communicate with them on social media.
It’s not true that money cannot buy happiness!
However this statement actually refers to the fact that "material goods” solely cannot attract happiness. Purchasing a luxury ‘glamping’ holiday with the family or spending quality time with your partner along the coast on a private luxury boat, will for sure cost considerable money; the difference is that certain kinds of financial splurging are both fulfilling and worthwhile. Even material purchases can form the basis for great experiences and satisfaction; for example sharing an epic movie watched on a 40-inch flat screen television shared with family and friends, is going to far outweigh that same movie being watched at a public cinema.
Therefore, being materialistic sometimes can really contribute to your happiness in a more meaningful way!
Hindsight Matters
Most of our cherished memories come from experiences and the value we attached to the feelings evoked. Those feelings after buying a stunning piece of art or jewellery are instantly recalled not for the price tag, but for the deeper meaning in terms of effort to acquire that item and the pleasure derived. Therefore, the reason why we want to acquire material items, will ultimately determine if they contribute to our greater good or demise.
A Final Word
It is often remarked that “giving” is closely coupled with “receiving”. President Obama once commented on the need for "giving" to be viewed as of value whenever somebody becomes prosperous materially. We can include this element of spirituality to the whole concept of materialism, thus encouraging the growth of the inherent goodness possessed by human beings through sharing. This will mean developing a culture of prosperity that encompasses giving, being compassionate and mindful of others without succumbing to greed and corruption. A prosperity based on the right moral values is surely something we should all strive to achieve.
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