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To Buy or Not To Buy. That Is The Question

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13 views2 pages

To Buy or Not To Buy. That Is The Question

Uploaded by

Lex Colterio
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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To Buy or Not to Buy? That is the Question!

MATERIAL SELF

William James' concept of the Material Self delves into how we form attachments to material
possessions, viewing them as extensions of ourselves. In his 1890 work, The Principles of Psychology,
James described the self in terms of its components, including the material self, which encompasses the
body, clothing, family, and home. These material aspects deeply influence our identity because we invest
emotional and psychological value into them.

Key aspects of the Material Self include:

1. The Body: According to James, the innermost part of the material self is our body. It is the most
intimate possession, which we strive to maintain in good health. Our investment in the body is
evident in the care we give it, with some people even insuring body parts (e.g., Mariah Carey
insuring her vocal cords and legs). Any harm to the body impacts us directly.

2. Clothing: Clothing, too, plays a significant role in our material self, as influenced by Hermann
Lotze's Philosophy of Dress. Clothes are not just coverings but expressions of self, influencing our
attitudes and behavior. What we wear becomes a reflection of our personal identity, leading to
clothing being a form of self-expression.

3. Immediate Family: Our immediate family is another extension of our material self. The success,
failures, and overall well-being of our family members deeply affect us. When they suffer, we feel
a part of ourselves in pain; when they succeed, we share in their joy. Family members represent
an important emotional and psychological investment of self.

4. Home: Finally, the home is a fundamental part of our material self. It is not just a physical space
but the repository of memories and personal experiences, making it an extension of selfhood.
The attachment to one’s home reflects its role as a place where our identity was nurtured and
developed.

Overall, James suggests that the more we invest in material objects and people, the more they become
part of our identity. We see ourselves in our possessions and relationships, with material items
representing personal extensions of the self. Therefore, material possessions, whether they be bodies,
clothes, family, or homes, form a crucial part of how we understand and express who we are.

WE ARE WHAT WE HAVE

Russell Belk's (1988) concept of "We Are What We Have" explores the deep connection between
individuals and their possessions, suggesting that material objects play a key role in shaping our identity
and self-concept. According to Belk, our possessions become extensions of ourselves, reflecting who we
are and what we value.

Key points from Belk’s idea include:


1. Early Identification with Possessions: The identification of self with material possessions begins
in infancy, as we distinguish between ourselves, our environment, and others. During this stage,
we develop an understanding of ownership and the significance of objects that belong to us.

2. Evolving Importance of Possessions: As we age, the importance of material possessions may


decrease, but they can still gain profound meaning, especially when tied to happiness, significant
life events, or relationships. These possessions come to symbolize personal accomplishments
and connections with others, gaining emotional and sentimental value.

3. Possessions as Symbols of Identity: Even after someone has passed away, their material
possessions may continue to evoke their memory and personality. Objects closely associated
with the person, such as a favorite chair, a well-maintained vehicle, or cherished books, become
symbols of the individual. Family members may find it difficult to part with such possessions, as -
they represent a continuing connection to the deceased.

4. Possessions Reflect Self-Concept: Belk posits that the things we hold dear offer insight into who
we are, including our values, experiences, and identity. They not only reflect our past but can
also shape our future. Our material belongings, therefore, are intertwined with our self-concept
and serve as physical manifestations of our personal history and aspirations.

In summary, Belk's theory emphasizes that material possessions are more than just objects; they are
integral to how we define ourselves and maintain connections to people, experiences, and memories.
They help shape our sense of identity and reflect our inner self.

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