Art by C. Abad, 2026
Materialism is often shamed because some people who have materialistic goals have been tied with being egoistic, or lacking morals. However, that is not the definition of materialism. As noted in Dictionary.com, Materialism simply means someone is excessively concerned with physical comforts or the acquisition of wealth and material possessions, rather than with spiritual, intellectual, or cultural values. It doesn’t necessarily mean the person is bad. Sometimes the person may just be ambitious or just want nice things. Oftentimes it’s tied to their environment, where they live or work. Psychology Today states Living in wealthy neighborhoods can influence people’s desire to buy nice things to simply “Keep Up” with others (Howell). Wanting to live well and enjoy the rewards of your hard work is a wonderful celebration of ambition rather than a flaw in your character
Materialism can be healthy. It can be used to motivate you, help create goals, and help you become successful. This can also be good for both physical and mental health. When we’re up and moving, we produce serotonin, endorphins, and dopamine. Walking around the mall, even if you’re just window shopping, can uplift you (Cleveland Clinic). There’s nothing wrong with treating yourself with a nice outfit for a quick confidence boost. Sometimes a stylish fit is just the type of self care we need. As reported in the American Psychological Association’s Monitor on Psychology, because some people can be materialistic without suffering psychological or physical distress, the real conflict arises only when material obsessions overshadow the things that truly matter in life (DeAngelis 52). I’ve always believed that loving a nice wardrobe is fine, as long as it’s enhancing your confidence rather than covering up an insecurity.
It really comes down to intent; enjoying the fruits of your hard work is entirely different from trying to buy your happiness. As psychologist James Maddux notes on George Mason University’s Well-Being site, we buy things out of thrill, but that temporary rush is often a Band-Aid for something deeper. Materialism isn’t the true villain here; rather, consumer culture preys on people who are already vulnerable, lonely, or struggling with depression, turning shopping into an unhealthy coping mechanism that ends in crippling debt.
