This can be with neighbors, friends, or family members like brothers, sisters, parents.
2007-08-01 02:37:12 · 9 answers · asked by eoc1000 2 in Arts & Humanities ➔ Philosophy
its a big waste of time. i always go by what mr. billings advises. "Live within your income, even if you have to borrow money to do so"
2007-08-01 03:46:51 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
"Normal" depends on the culture. In America in the late 19th century, it was very important to "keep up with the Joneses". Since then, it has alternately fallen out of fashion and then become more popular.
In parts of medieval Italy, blood feuds were fought over such appearances. So, this really varies according to time and place.
Is it necessary? No, of course not, unless one lives in a culture where one is judged on appearance. Carried to an extreme, acquisition becomes a sort of social obligation. But if one doesn't live in such a culture, it's not only unnecessary but can be downright dysfunctional.
So long as "keeping up with the Joneses" provides a sense of satisfaction and well-being, there's little harm in it. When it gets to the point where keeping up appearances is a source of stress, things have probably gone too far.
2007-08-01 09:54:55 · answer #2 · answered by El Jefe 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Competition is fine when people don't get all uptight about it, but when you're constantly comparing yourself to others then there is really no way you can ever win. There will always be someone with something you don't have, and that can't really end well. So, no, it isn't necessary. Is it normal? I'd hope not. I don't think most people should feel compelled to do it. I don't. I live in a rich, white suburb where everyone is constantly trying to one-up one another and it's disgusting. I guess it is "normal" - how sad.
2007-08-08 03:23:20 · answer #3 · answered by Erin 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Depends on how much you buy into the theory that he who dies with the most toys wins.
Of course, there are a lot of people who think we should be giving out handouts to those who refuse to compete.
In short, there is no harm in working hard - and being proud of yourself for being the alpha dog.
Competition is a good thing. Political correctness is a very bad thing
2007-08-01 10:53:45 · answer #4 · answered by The_Village_Idiot 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It sounds exhausting and a huge waste of time. In my well-kept and conservative (but in denial) neighborhood, I see most people compete with each other...if one starts planting flowers and trees, another will do the same, but better, within a week or so. I personally think it's ridiculous and I have no interest in keeping up with them...and I guess that makes me weird but that doesn't bother me...it seems to bother them more.
2007-08-01 09:45:51 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
No it is sick and makes you sick.Be yourself.
There are always people who have more and people who have less.What does it matter on which plateau you are ,as long as you like yourself and have piece of mind.
2007-08-08 15:21:42 · answer #6 · answered by yasses 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It is normal, or at least very common, but not necessary.
2007-08-06 13:31:49 · answer #7 · answered by Captain Atom 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
who has time and energy to keep up with the jones what a waste of time and energy
2007-08-09 08:36:50 · answer #8 · answered by flipper 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
That whole idea is foreign to me.
2007-08-08 05:01:08 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋