The affluent society was marked by consumerism and material wealth from "summary" of The affluent society by J.K. Galbraith
The prevailing feature of society in this era is an intense preoccupation with material wealth and consumerism. The insatiable desire for goods and services has become the defining characteristic of the affluent society. Individuals are driven by a constant need to acquire material possessions, regardless of their actual necessity or utility. This obsessive focus on consumption has led to a culture where status and social standing are determined by one's ability to accumulate wealth and possessions. The pursuit of material goods has become the primary goal for many people, overshadowing other aspects of life such as relationships, personal growth, and community engagement. Consumerism has penetrated all aspects of society, influencing not only individuals but also institutions and governments. The economy is built on the premise of continuous growth and expansion, fueled by the constant demand for consumer goods. Companies invest heavily in advertising and marketing to create a culture of consumption, where individuals are bombarded with messages encouraging them to buy more and more. The affluent society is characterized by a cycle of production and consumption that perpetuates itself, creating a never-ending cycle of desire and acquisition. This cycle is sustained by a complex web of economic forces, social norms, and cultural values that work together to reinforce the primacy of material wealth. Despite the abundance of material goods and services available, there is a pervasive sense of discontent and dissatisfaction among individuals in the affluent society. The pursuit of wealth and possessions has failed to bring true happiness or fulfillment, leading many to question the meaning and purpose of their lives. In this context, the affluent society is at a crossroads, faced with the challenge of redefining its values and priorities. It is imperative that individuals and institutions move away from a narrow focus on material wealth and consumerism, towards a more balanced and sustainable model of prosperity that takes into account the well-being of society as a whole.
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