Often times the incentive of material profit and wealth fogs the idea of true success and happiness. While everyone is quick to ask what kind of car you drive, we forget that who is in the car with us counts for more. We live in a society obsessed with materialism, and when advertisements are everywhere, it is truly inescapable.
Often times the incentive of material profit and wealth fogs the idea of true success and happiness. While everyone is quick to ask what kind of car you drive, we forget that who is in the car with us counts for more. We live in a society obsessed with materialism, and when advertisements are everywhere, it is truly inescapable.
Advertising works to convince you the given product will enhance your life and even make you a better person. While certain purchased items can improve your life, there are usually more fitting solutions to your problems than spending money.
The economic side of materialism is not very realistic and explains why so many people are in debt. According to Nerdwallet, the average American household has $15,675 in credit card debt.
While debt is damaging, the emotional side of materialism is even more devastating. Our society’s infatuation with material items leaves those who are not wealthy desiring money that is not necessary for true happiness. By encouraging the idea that material items make you a better person, we are ignoring how impractical it is for everyone to be able to live a wealthy lifestyle. Just because someone cannot afford a certain brand says nothing about his or her character.
The flaws of materialism are sadly portrayed within children. Children, and especially teens, place endless worth on what is cool to wear and own. It just so happens that the popular clothes and toys are also more expensive. From a young age, people are taught to judge someone else based on what they own instead of who they are, creating a misleading foundation for all relationships.
Another flaw of materialism is it creates ulterior motives within ambition. Instead of choosing a career based on how it fits the person’s personality and needs, people choose the career that will make them more money. Similarly, some people neglect their family and friends in order to work more and receive an excess amount of money.
Materialism is dangerous because it takes us away from the world around us. If we are focused on what we are wearing and buying, it is easy to miss key moments and beauty within our world. I get caught up in material attractions as much as the next person, but I strive to appreciate the people around me that provide priceless joy everyday, rather than follow expensive trends.
