Why are people today so materialistic?

Answer 1

In American, we definitely are. In other countries, people aren't that same.

I think Greed has gotten a hold of the country and we can't shake it. Americans are getting to the point where we feel entitled to giant SUVs and 200,000 dollar homes. Entitled, not privileged. And we're also one of the most miserable countries as far as happiness goes.

Answer 2

because some where along the line we learned that are self worth is determined by our possessions, we want more because they neighbor has more and we want them to think that we are as good or better than them. This problem only get worse as America becomes more obsessed with celebrities, There is shows and magazines everywhere about them, but why do they sell so well?? Because we keep buying them. They aren't just putting this stuff out there and not making any money. Americans ask for it they want to see it and some one is going to make money off of it. The other reason is credit. Credit it makes it so easy for people to live way above their means. Not only can you apply for it but they will solicit you to give you a card. Then five years latter you are 60,000 in debt paying on that wonderful house that will never truly be yours.

Answer 3

We have become an 'instant gratification' society. And the only way we can appease ourselves in this mentality is through material objects. Quickly obtained and many times effortlessly. The REAL rewards of life take long periods of time and demand hard work: an education, a family, a home, a career, etc..... not easy. But if you think you did a good job with that term paper or on that project at work, go out and buy that Plasma TV and there you are.....rewarded!

Answer 4

I think monica_y might have helped answer your question. Some folks seek short term satisfaction with material possesions, such as having to have the latest cell phone, the largest/smallest/whatever car, or the fanciest home. Wanting to "keep up with the Joneses" affects many people.

edited to add: It's not always bad, until it gets to the point where it's doing more harm than good. If someone's maxing out their credit cards on the latest clothes/electronics/etc, it's bad. If it's hurting others, such as taking out a lease on the most expensive car you can afford, but your kids don't have medical insurance, it's bad.

Answer 5

well, the age of hunting for meat and gathering of grains are all over. How do we use our money? Shop and shop and shop! Oh, wait, i need more money...lets walk down the aile with my botay hanging and see if someone can swip that card on me. ;). Just another trivial reason...you know the rest. Think and Write a journal if ur really into understanding it albeit there is no hard thinking involved. Zzzzzz

Answer 6

Our society encourages it in every way possible. The hot media "throbs and titillates" with its advertising that tells us we are < if we don't "buy this" or "own that." Our economy is "product-based" rather than "usury-based" and while "supply-side" is preferable, we need to re-evaluate our connectedness to God and whether we are driven by that connection or the material ones placed repeatedly before us.

Answer 7

I think because without materials we would realize that we really have nothing else to depend our happiness on.

Answer 8

Ignorant people and fantastically produced commercials. Glitter and Sex. Can't get enough!

Answer 9

because there are so many pretty things in the world to buy!

and so much media that tells us we HAVE to have them if we want to be cool.

Answer 10

I would have to blame the media! They make everything look so appealing, so you want to buy it.