2007-02-23 19:03:56 · 13 answers · asked by keen 1 in Social Science ➔ Psychology
Because they have have been conditioned by our shallow, materialistic consumer society. They are basically told that you have "arrived" or are "successful" if you own a fancy car, a house in suburbia with a white picket fence, have 2.5 kids, have a dog, and you "keep up with the Joneses" by owning the latest plasma TV, time-share in Tahoe, SUV, and designer wardrobe? WHY is this the "American Dream"? The "American Dream" is dismal, at best. I mean, the rampant consumerism, mindless materialism, urban sprawl, inefficient modes of travel, social isolation, unsustainability, and mandatory contribution to overpopulation that are all inherent in the "American dream" are no dreams of mine! It's simply something that has been thrust upon us by society for so long that we don't even question it's validity anymore. Sad, eh?
It all reminds me of a bumper sticker I saw: "I need my car to get to my job and I need my job to pay for my car!" And on and on it goes... What a dream!
2007-02-23 19:14:51 · answer #1 · answered by The Man In The Box 6 · 2⤊ 0⤋
People have the choice of renting a house instead of buying one.
Although renting typically costs less and comes with less responsibilities, most people still choose to buy a house.
Why? For both social and psychological reasons I guess.... It seems as though owning a house is a sign of success and social status.
The ownership of a house gives some sense of security (no one can kick you out of it). Also, you will have something to show for when the mortgage has been paid off -> It's yours!!!! Oh...and you don't need to worry about having to pay rent during your retirement years.
Simply paying a monthly rent does not give you any return.
Real estate prices have always risen over the years no matter where you live. It's unfortunate that housing in most areas has became so unaffordable that people must now spend an increasingly large portion of their income to pay off a mortgage for most of their life.
In addition, people in our society are becoming more and more materialistic. A few decades ago, people lived a much simpler life without expensive cars, computers, cell phones, cable tv, high speed internet, vacations, etc. So they were probably able to dedicate a larger percentage of their income towards house payments.
A higher cost of living simply comes with the higher expectations of our society.
2007-02-25 05:25:39 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
We don't have to do anything of the sort. Some people do it because it gives a small sense of security in a volatile world. Some people feel the need to live above their means. Other people don't feel the need to own a home so expensive that it takes their whole life (or even half) to pay for it. Keeping it simple works for me. I'm not joining any rat race to keep up with the Joneses.
2007-02-24 03:10:36 · answer #3 · answered by Konswayla 6 · 0⤊ 1⤋
I think its silly that some people are putting down owning a house. Who wants to pay rent their entire life and have nothing to show for it? I see it as a great investment... and I didn't have to work my whole life to get my first house... I am only 24.
2007-02-24 03:39:23 · answer #4 · answered by Drea 2 · 0⤊ 2⤋
Because people want to live to their maximum standard of living, which they believe this "class" will make them happy. When it really does nothing more than cause stress living outside your means.
It's really nothing more than a governemnt ploy to keep people so busy, that they have no choice but to work and not cause trouble.
Of course I don't believe that but its amusing never the less.
2007-02-24 03:10:07 · answer #5 · answered by shadycaliber 5 · 0⤊ 1⤋
people who plan well can do better. My spouse and I worked full times our first few years of mariage. We lived cheap, and saved one person's entire pay check until we had enough for a small house. Then we had our children and I stayed home with them while he worked. It can be done. You have to be content to not have the newest car and such.
2007-02-24 03:13:59 · answer #6 · answered by winkcat 7 · 0⤊ 2⤋
because it's not the 1950's anymore...I say that because back then, even in the 60's a family could make it with one income, that's buying a house and all.
2007-02-24 03:12:10 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 1⤋
It's the system of the down. They've turned us into slaves. Sonsofguns.
2007-02-24 03:07:39 · answer #8 · answered by Your Mom 5 · 1⤊ 1⤋
coz their parents dont want to stay with them saying they should be independent ,or else its the other way round...they dont want to live with their parents. Also, could be they are greedy , want a bigger house....
so happy slogging for a house...but for me its Bcoz my parents want the house themselves...
Good luck! Hope dont have to slog so hard
2007-02-24 03:16:26 · answer #9 · answered by Hi 2 · 0⤊ 3⤋
What would system live off if it would be different?
2007-02-24 04:48:34 · answer #10 · answered by timekiller unlimited 5 · 0⤊ 2⤋