Consumerism

Consumerism is the idea that increasing the consumption of goods and services purchased in the market is always a desirable goal, and that a person's well-being and happiness depend fundamentally on obtaining consumer goods and material possessions. - Investipedia

Have you ever heard or said the statement, “He who dies with the most toys wins?” It seems innocent enough, but it tends to imply that those with the most stuff are happier. Yet, most experts would say that it merely masks chronic dissatisfaction and jealousy that has proven to be unhealthy for the human soul. This is a driving discussion point in the film,AIR,a true-to-life story of tapping into the world's mindset of brands.

The building blocks of consumerism are greed, envy, and selfishness, which fuel the insatiable need to buy more things as a means of satisfaction.

The word consumerism is not found in the Bible, but the elements that make up this condition are addressed. Jesus said, “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.” - Luke 12:15 (ESV)

For those who struggle with this issue in their own lives, the cure begins with gratitude. Where consumerism is a condition that can never be fully satisfied, gratefulness allows people to be content with all they have been given.

But godliness with contentment is great gain, for we brought nothing into the world, and we cannot take anything out of the world. But if we have food and clothing, with these we will be content.- 1 Timothy 6:6-8 (ESV)