Material Self and Consumerism

Material Self

• The material self comprises everything a person owns.
• William James defined the self as encompassing all things a person believes is theirs and contributes to their material self.
• Materialism is prioritizing material possessions over intangible values.
• Materialistic people are often centered and focus on the amount of wealth.
• Happiness is linked to the relationship between buying and consumption for materialists.

Topics Covered

• What is Material Self?
• Materialism
• Consumerism
• Concept of Self-Gift
• Correlates of Materialism
• Pursuit of Happiness

Consumerism

• Excessive consumption of material goods and services beyond basic needs.
• Encourages buying unnecessary items.

Materialistic People

• Obsessed with material possessions.
• This obsession is recognized as a psychological disorder—compulsive buying disorder (COD).

Security

• Material possessions provide a feeling of security.
• Money and property are tangible assets for security.

Sense of Well-Being

• Wealth leads to feelings of well-being.
• Material wealth is connected to happiness.

Self-Esteem & Self-Confidence

• Material wealth boosts self-esteem and self-confidence.
• Possessing assets that not everyone has leads to higher self-esteem.

Relationships

• Cherished wealth correlates to more friends and relationships.
• Greater interaction arises from wealth.

Concept of Self-Gift

• The self is the primary subject of one's life journey.
• Personal consumption and gratification are desired.

Three Factors Determining Self-Gifts

• Materialism is often self-centered.
• Materialists define success based on wealth accumulation.
• Happiness is linked to the relationship between buying and consumption.

The Correlates of Materialism

• Materialism and happiness do not always correlate positively.
• Materialists may be less happy and prone to depression.
• Materialism and self-esteem have an inverse relationship.
• Materialism and financial stability also show an inverted relationship.
• Materialists may isolate themselves from others.
• Insecurity motivates materialism.
• Materialism correlates to a loss of empathy.

According to Gregoire (2017)

• Consumer culture can negatively affect well-being.
• Materialistic values are associated with Type-A behavior.
• Money cannot buy happiness.
• Materialism can damage relationships.
• Consumer cultures can cultivate narcissistic personalities.
• Consumerism is fueled by insecurity.

The Pursuit of Happiness

• Finding joy through appreciating one's uniqueness.
• Recognizing and celebrating one's individuality.

LEARN

• Sharing blessings, no matter how small.
• Communicating and relating with others.
• Letting go of unnecessary possessions.

STOP

• Avoid projecting on social media.
• Focus on future goals and happiness.
• Minimize negativity surrounding the past.

IMPROVE

• Engage in worthwhile activities to boost self-esteem.

TAKE

• Appreciate the beauty of life and God's creations.

BE

• Return compliments to cultivate gratitude.

FOCUS ON

• Nurture strengths instead of dwelling on flaws.

DEVELOP

• Create a mantra to counter negative thoughts.

Albert Einstein Quote

• Simple and unassuming living is best for mind and body.

Explore the concept of the material self, which includes all possessions a person values. This quiz discusses materialism, the psychological impacts of consumerism, and the relationship between wealth and happiness. Dive into the complexities of how material possessions shape identity and security in our lives.