Why are people materialistic ?

I don't think it's just because they believe those things in and of themselves will make them happy, but what it's associated with; image.

Most people I know that are very materialistic is because they feel they have something to prove to the people around them; they want to show that they're hard working, successful and have a good life. It's the reason why someone pays 10x the price for something with a brand name when you can get similar quality items much cheaper. They need people to see what they've accomplished, and this gives them a sense of worth.

After a while I'm sure they realise that that was not the answer to their problems, in reality they just had a lack of self worth/self esteem, and so needed external praises, validations and affirmations to temporarily and superficially fill that void.

Most people don't look inwards for anything, when most things come from within; at least, if you want it to be long lasting.

I think that if someone works on being the best version of themselves that they can - whether mentally, spiritually, emotionally, intellectually or physically - and is constantly working towards self improvement, they will be confident, self sufficient people, without a whole load of self esteem issues which we are all plagued with.

Reply 4

nomophobia

13

Because sometimes the environment that people come from means that to them, the more money they have, the more luxurious the lifestyle and therefore, less stress and less money worries.

Also, sometimes materialistic things like nice holidays with your family and being able to go out for meals with your friends do make people happy.

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Reply 5

Original post by nomophobia

Because sometimes the environment that people come from means that to them, the more money they have, the more luxurious the lifestyle and therefore, less stress and less money worries.

Also, sometimes materialistic things like nice holidays with your family and being able to go out for meals with your friends do make people happy.

Posted from TSR Mobile

I think OP is referring to when it gets to extreme levels. And yeah you've got a point, I think fear of poverty is a major factor too.

Reply 6

OP

Original post by LauraMayden1

I don't think it's just because they believe those things in and of themselves will make them happy, but what it's associated with; image.

Most people I know that are very materialistic is because they feel they have something to prove to the people around them; they want to show that they're hard working, successful and have a good life. It's the reason why someone pays 10x the price for something with a brand name when you can get similar quality items much cheaper. They need people to see what they've accomplished, and this gives them a sense of worth.

After a while I'm sure they realise that that was not the answer to their problems, in reality they just had a lack of self worth/self esteem, and so needed external praises, validations and affirmations to temporarily and superficially fill that void.

.

It probably gives them a sense of worth but I dont bat an eyelid. Wearing flashy clothes what does it actually matter.

And hey hows it going long time, remember me ?

Reply 7

It's****ingWOODY

It's the pressures of society. As an adult, your worth is literally judged by your bank balance and assets.

Reply 8

OP

Original post by nomophobia

Because sometimes the environment that people come from means that to them, the more money they have, the more luxurious the lifestyle and therefore, less stress and less money worries.

Also, sometimes materialistic things like nice holidays with your family and being able to go out for meals with your friends do make people happy.

Posted from TSR Mobile

Yeah but realistically the more money you have the more problem, whether the money is attained through loans or work, to have a very good amount of money you will need a big role like a manager therby creating more stress.

But you dont need lots of £££ for a nice meal out.

Reply 9

OP

Original post by WoodyMKC

It's the pressures of society. As an adult, your worth is literally judged by your bank balance and assets.

Not to the good people though. Your partner wouldnt judge you on that. Well she shouldnt anyway.

Reply 10

It's****ingWOODY

Original post by redleader1

Not to the good people though. Your partner wouldnt judge you on that. Well she shouldnt anyway.

Correct, but as far as society in general goes, it's 100% the case, and we all at least subconsciously realise it. Some people don't give a f*** and are happy with what they've got, but you'll find that the majority of young people are very career-conscious in this day and age all because of the pressure to have a respectable career and therefore rise up the social ladder, so to speak.

Reply 11

Mistletoe

2

It's human instinct to hoard for the winter to prevent starvation/malnutrition. This has transformed into materialism.

Reply 12

Original post by redleader1

It probably gives them a sense of worth but I dont bat an eyelid. Wearing flashy clothes what does it actually matter.

And hey hows it going long time, remember me ?

Yeah but the majority do. There will always be exceptions, but us humans usually like to go with whatever the majority are going with.

And I do indeed, it's all good. How are you? It's nice to see some older users still on here.

Reply 13

OP

Original post by LauraMayden1

Yeah but the majority do. There will always be exceptions, but us humans usually like to go with whatever the majority are going with.

And I do indeed, it's all good. How are you? It's nice to see some older users still on here.

True. Yes im good too thanks :smile:

Reply 14

Original post by redleader1

True. Yes im good too thanks :smile:

That's great :smile:

Reply 15

Anonymous #1

Original post by redleader1

I understand you need money to live etc. However you dont need money to be happy and in life your goal should be to be happy. I mean money isnt everything and you dont need money to have a good laugh. What I enjoy is spending time with my family and friends because it a good social time.

However so many people are in to the flashy car and clothes, it doesnt really matter what you wear or drive its how the person actually is inside and how they interact with you.

I know people who work so much overtime neglecting time for the family and friends, im like why ? I couldnt do that. People are sometimes fighting with their own family over money. Its just disgusting.

Why do you think people are materialistic ?

Actually,their perspective of "success" or "happiness" differs from yours.Yes,some people overtime,lose their interest but I guess its human nature, we get bored too easily.

Reply 16

OP