Why Has Society Become So Consumer-Focused?

Underconsumption is an online trend that's starting to gain traction as people try to tame their shopping habits in an effort to reduce waste and unnecessary spending. While this is a step in the right direction, it begs the question: why has the world become so centered around consumerism?

Of course, higher wages and competitively priced goods have a huge role to play, but these are just some of the reasons for the development of this phenomenon. 

Throughout this article, we'll explore how and why consumerism has skyrocketed, and the ramifications of excessive buying.

What Is Consumerism?

Before we get started, it's worth looking into what exactly consumerism means. In short, consumerism is the theory that spending is key to economic growth. 

It relies on people's desires to buy more and more products and services, many of which could be considered luxuries and unnecessary for survival. Furthermore, it promotes the idea that this frequent spending and acquisition of goods can help to enhance your sense of identity and general well-being.

When Did Consumerism Begin to Spread?

Consumerism came about during the Industrial Revolution, as the supply of products began to exceed the demand. Over the years, as more and more people became wealthy and, therefore, had greater disposable income, the market for non-essential items steadily grew. 

It really began to take off after the Second World War, as wages rose and people's attitudes towards a more material-focused way of living. Ever since then, it has continued to become a dominant force throughout the developed world.

Consumerism in the 21st Century

At the turn of the century, consumerism was only on the up. However, the technological advancements that were to follow would lead to unparalleled spending. Nowadays, we're subject to more advertisements than ever, clever marketing techniques, and increasingly convenient ways to shop.

What Has Caused This Surge in Consumerism?

Social Media

Social media has undoubtedly had an extraordinary impact on consumerism. No matter what the product is, it's likely made its way onto various social media platforms and can be purchased from Instagram or TikTok in just a few clicks.

Our algorithms are also tailored towards our likes and interests, meaning we're constantly exposed to adverts that tempt us to keep spending. Not only that, but the comparisons we draw between ourselves and others online can make us feel as if buying specific items will make us feel happier or more confident.

E-Commerce

Online shopping is now a part of many of our daily lives, and it has made making purchases easier than we could have ever anticipated. It's commonplace for many companies to exist solely online without any physical stores.

After you buy something, you'll usually automatically be signed up for the business's subscriber list. This means that you'll receive frequent emails about sales and promotions, encouraging you to continue spending. 

Globalization

In terms of connectivity, the world is a much smaller place now than it's ever been. Globalization has opened us up to goods from every corner of the planet, while we previously only had the option to shop in more local spots.

This expansive marketplace means we have a better chance of securing items at a lower price, leading us to buy more than we ordinarily would have. It has also introduced us to products from other countries that we never knew existed.

Cultural Changes

As people came into more money, the world began to show a newfound interest in material goods. Products that were once reserved for a select few became more accessible to the everyday person. From then on, people started buying previously unattainable items to display their wealth.

This led to the growth of a more individualistic society, which places more value on materialism than in the past.

The Negative Effects of Consumerism

Environmental Impact

Consumerism has had a largely negative impact on the environment, and it's an issue of increasing concern. With more shopping comes more waste, a lot of which quickly ends up in landfills. 

Because we're naturally inclined to look for deals and low-priced goods, we tend to buy much more than what we really need. Additionally, the most inexpensive products often come from the other side of the world, meaning they have a hefty carbon footprint by the time they arrive at your front door.

Social Inequality

There's no denying that inequality still very much exists in society today, but consumerism reinforces these already unjust wealth gaps and social divides.

Firstly, it can cause individuals with less disposable income to feel as if they're falling behind if some products are out of their reach. Moreover, it creates a demand for cheap goods, which can often only be priced this low by underpaying workers.

Mental Health

We may not always be conscious of it, but the constant cycle of buying can have a profound effect on our mental health. These days, some people use shopping as a way to deal with negative emotions. In the long run, this can lead to anything from financial difficulties to an unhealthy dependency on goods for instant gratification. 

This is something businesses and marketing companies are aware of, and they use this to their advantage to keep you spending.

Financial Concerns

The never-ending opportunities for consumption can cause eager shoppers to become hooked on the feeling making a purchase gives them. Even when we don't have a desire for a particular item, we sometimes feel compelled to purchase these so-called 'must-haves' to keep up appearances or fit in.

If you're not careful, you might find yourself running into trouble with money, which can have all sorts of dangerous repercussions.

Our Insight Into How Consumerism Has Become Deeply Embedded in the Modern World

Consumerism plays a vital role in the world today, and while it's hard to deny that it has impacted society in a positive way, it's important to be aware of the harm it causes. Being aware of the good and bad sides will allow you to make more responsible decisions when it comes to your spending.