Why Do We Value Material Things More Than People?

Is humanity inherently worth more or less than zero, with any additional intrinsic worth being a matter of ethics and compassion rather than tangible science? This question invites us to delve into the complexities of human values and motivations.

The Tendency to Prioritize Material Possessions Over Personal Relations

One facet of this dilemma is the tendency to prioritize material goods over personal relationships. This inclination can be attributed to several psychological, social, and cultural factors.

Immediate Gratification

Material possessions often offer immediate satisfaction. The pleasure derived from acquiring new items can be more immediate and tangible than the deeper, albeit sometimes more complicated emotional rewards from personal connections. The instant gratification associated with material acquisitions can provide a swift and noticeable boost to one's mood and self-esteem.

Cultural Influences

Many societies place a strong emphasis on consumerism and material success as indicators of personal worth and achievement. This cultural shift can lead individuals to equate happiness and fulfillment with the level of material wealth and possessions one accumulates. In such contexts, having a garage filled with luxury cars or a living room adorned with expensive furniture can be seen as markers of success and social status.

Status and Identity

Material possessions often serve as status symbols. Owning certain items can provide a sense of identity and social standing. For instance, owning a luxury watch or wearing designer clothing can signify to others one's financial success and refinement. This can make people feel that focusing on such items is more important than nurturing and maintaining personal relationships.

Control and Ownership

Physical objects can offer a sense of control and security. In contrast, personal relationships are inherently unpredictable and require ongoing effort and vulnerability. Some individuals may feel daunted by the uncertainties and demands of sustaining personal bonds and may find solace in the stability and control that material possessions can provide.

Social Comparison

The rise of social media has further amplified the visibility and influence of personal possessions. In a world where social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok showcase others' luxurious lifestyles, individuals may feel pressured to keep up with their peers. This constant comparison can foster a focus on material items and status symbols as a means of seeking validation and recognition.

Psychological Needs

At times, people may turn to material possessions to fill emotional voids or cope with stress. Owning certain items can provide a sense of comfort and security, acting as a temporary solution to emotional discomfort. This can lead individuals to prioritize material acquisitions over personal relationships, which can be more demanding and uncertain.

The Dangers of Materialism

While material possessions can provide temporary satisfaction, research indicates that meaningful personal connections often lead to greater long-term happiness and fulfillment. By putting a heavy emphasis on material wealth, individuals may neglect vital interpersonal relationships, leading to feelings of isolation and emotional emptiness.

The importance of balancing the value of material and personal connections cannot be overstated. A healthy life requires nurturing both aspects to achieve overall well-being and emotional fulfillment.

Why People Withdraw into TV and Animation

The habit of enveloping oneself in the world of TV and animation can be seen as a form of escapism. Given that human beings have the capacity to be wicked and uncomfortable, material possessions offer a sense of comfort and familiarity. Just as material goods provide a means of avoiding the challenges of personal relationships, so too does the immersive world of television and animation.

Engaging with visual media provides a temporary reprieve from the complexities and uncertainties of real-life interactions. TV and animation offer predictable narratives and stable characters, which can be less demanding and more controllable than the unpredictability of human emotions and social dynamics.

The emotional fulfillment derived from material possessions can also be paralleled with the escapism provided by TV and animation. Both offer a sense of security and stability in an often chaotic world. By immersing themselves in these media, individuals are able to experience a form of love and connection that is more predictable and controllable than the unpredictable nature of human relationships.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the challenge lies in achieving a balance between the value of material possessions and the importance of personal relationships. While material items can provide temporary satisfaction, nurturing meaningful connections is essential for long-term happiness and fulfillment.

By recognizing the power of both material and personal connections, individuals can lead more well-rounded and satisfying lives. Cultivating a healthy relationship with both aspects can lead to a richer and more fulfilling existence.