Material self

Cards (18)

  • What is the material self composed of?
    A person's tangible possessions, such as car, house, clothes, and relationships.
  • How does William James define the self?
    The self includes everything an individual considers as his or hers, including body, possessions, reputation, and beliefs.
  • What is a basic component of the material self?
    The body.
  • What do clothes represent in the context of the material self?
    Clothes represent the self and become significant symbols of identity.
  • What other possessions are included in the material self?
    House, car, pets, and other personal possessions.
  • How do material possessions relate to social status?
    Material possessions are symbolic of one's social status, with more expensive items impressing others.
  • What does Russell Belle suggest about material possessions?
    They act as an objective manifestation of the self and reflect hard work and success.
  • How can defining the self by material possessions affect well-being?
    It can contribute to a sense of personal growth and purpose, but loss can disrupt mental health.
  • What is materialism?
    Giving more importance to material possessions than intangible values.
  • What can excessive concern with material possessions lead to?
    Psychological dysfunction or impairment in functioning.
  • What is consumer culture?
    A social system dominated by the consumption of commercial products.
  • How does consumer culture mediate relationships between lived culture and social resources?
    Through markets that connect meaningful ways of life with symbolic and material resources.
  • What is consumerism?
    The consumption of material goods and services in excess of one's basic needs.
  • How does consumerism relate to materialism?
    Consumerism is closely tied to materialism, emphasizing excessive consumption.
  • What are the positive and negative effects of consumer culture on individuals?
    It can lead to happiness and motivation when needs are met, but also dissatisfaction and depression when it encourages unnecessary purchases.
  • How can the endless state of needs and wants in consumer culture affect mental health?
    It can cause negative effects such as dissatisfaction, unhappiness, and depression.
  • What are the key roles of media in relation to material possessions?
    • Influences desire to acquire material possessions
    • Shapes perceptions of social status
    • Promotes consumer culture
  • What are the implications of defining self-worth through material possessions?
    • Can enhance feelings of identity and belonging
    • May lead to mental health issues if possessions are lost
    • Reflects societal values on success and status