Post 5 (Edited Post September 18, 2014)

The question I would like to focus on or address throughout this post is indirectly taken from the lecture on September 12^th. The question is as follows, “Are humans really happy without materialistic possessions? Do humans express genuine happiness when it is not related to some kind of object?”

To begin this discussion I will begin with Abraham Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs.

From this picture one can see that there is no true place for materialistic wealth. One can argue that expensive technology and other fancy gadgets could fall under “Esteem Needs” however that would imply that almost all humans are insecure since we all have some object that we feel is invaluable. This claim would not be suitable, otherwise even the most humble people would be considered insecure.

But in today’s world, it is nearly impossible to live a “21^st century life” without materials or objects. For example, almost everyone has a house to live in, or uses some form of transportation that either they own, or the local government provides (local buses). Hence, living a life without completely removing or valuing materialistic possessions is unrealistic.

Generally the wealthiest nations will have the most material possessions, especially in comparison to third world countries. A study with more than 89,000 people in 18 nations revealed that 15 percent of people in high-income countries reported having been depressed, compared with 11 percent of those in low- or middle-income countries. Depression rates were highest in the United States and France, far outpacing poorer countries like Mexico (http://www.ibtimes.com/wealthiest-nations-are-unhappiest-study-818211). This means that material wealth does not equal happiness and humans should look beyond materialistic desires.

This leads me to the other question, which is, “Do humans express genuine happiness when it is not related to some kind of object?” For example, are humans truly happy distant family members came to their birthday party, or are they more interested in what gifts they received from them. Although this thought sounds negative and egocentric, it could be true. When was the last time you or even someone you know had a birthday party without expecting some present?

I also think technology is to blame for how materialistic humans have become. It is developing at the fastest rate in history and the general public is not able to keep up with the latest phone or computer. This fast pace leads to greed for more new gadgets during birthdays and similar events. Unfortunately, the newer devices have slight upgrades on the previous models, which always leave us for wanting more.

I do not see how this problem can be solved in the near future, or if it is even considered a problem by other humans. Perhaps I am blowing this issue out of proportion and I should think about how difficult life would be without technology and materialistic wealth. Sure, this viewpoint is valid, but there has to be a clear line when materialistic appreciation or desire becomes unhealthy and an obsession.