The document discusses the concept of the 'material self', which encompasses the tangible aspects of identity such as body, possessions, and relationships, highlighting how these elements influence self-worth and identity. It contrasts needs and wants, examines consumer culture and its impact on behavior, and explores the psychological effects of materialism. Ultimately, it emphasizes the importance of recognizing possessions as extensions of the self while maintaining a critical perspective on consumer culture.

2. MATERIAL
SELF
Torlao Versano Bungay

3. Table of contents
01
04
02
05
03
Explain the
aspects of
material self.
Describe the basic
components of the
material self.
Discuss the
influence of
media in people’s
acquisition of
material
possessions.
Assess the role of
consumer culture
in your sense of
self and identity.
Differentiate
Between
needs and
wants.

4. -Albert Einstein-
"The materialistic
view of the world
must be replaced by
a spiritual and
ethical philosophy
of life. A life of pure
materialism leads to

5. Material self
- refers to the tangible aspects of an individual’s
identity, including their body, possessions, clothing,
and immediate relationships.
- it suggests that people derive a sense of self-
worth and identity from their material belongings,
often viewing them as extensions of themselves.
- it is an attachment of items that can significantly
influence their self-perception and overall
sense of well-being.

6. Material self
- (including the body) and
possessions are part of the
created order,
but they must be viewed
within the larger context of
the soul's relationship with
God.
St. Augustine

7. Components of Material
Self
Body
Clothing
People
Possessions

8. Body
-this encompasses and
health, which play a
significant role in self-
identity and personal
expression.

9. People
-relationships with family
members
contribute to one’s material self,
as
these connections often define
social
roles and responsibilities.

10. Clothing
-the types and styles of
clothing
Individuals wear serve as
important markers of identity,
social
Status, and personal taste. It
is
representation of the self.

11. Possessions
This includes all tangible
items ones owns, such as a car,
and personal belongings, which
individuals often associate with
their identity and self-worth.

12. Defining self through
material possessions can
enhance of this two
concepts.
1.Sense of personal growth
2.Purpose or meaning of life

13. 1. Sense of personal growth
-the feeling of developing new skills, attitudes, and
behaviors that improve your life.

14. 2. Purpose or meaning of life
-a personal intention that gives direction
to your life and motivates you.

15. Russell Belk (1988)
-His work focuses on the
meaning of possessions, gift-
giving, sharing, and
materialism.
-He believes that possessions are a key
part of our identity, and that they can
reflect our past, present, and future.
-Our possessions are a
major contributor to and
reflection of our identities.

16. Development Aspects of Materialism
• Materialism – refers to giving more
importance to material possessions than
intangible values.
• Materialistic Person – is excessively
focused on acquiring material possessions.
• Identification with material possessions
begins early in life and persists as people seek
happiness. (Belk ,1988)
• Lack or loss of material possessions can result
in anxiety, insecurity, and depression for
overly materialistic individuals.

17. Role of Material possessions in
self and Identity
o Material possessions – symbolize
social status regardless of quantity.
o Visible possessions (cars, houses,
gadgets, clothes) are often deemed
most valuable.
o Higher value items tend to impress
others.
o Owning possessions drives
individuals to achieve higher levels of
success.

18. NEEDS AND WANTS
Needs – is
something that a
person must have
in order to live.
Wants – is
something that a
person desires to
have but can live
without.
Consumer Buying Behaviors:
Impulse Buyers – buying
anything without giving
much thought to what they
buy and the consequences
that may come later on.
Compulsive Buying Disorder
(CBD) – is characterized by an
obsession with shopping and
buying behaviors.

19. Impact of credit cards on consumer behavior:
 Credit cards influence consumer
spending habits.
 They can lead to unnecessary
capricious and extravagant.
 Encouragement to buy goods
solely because credit is available.
 Reduces the opportunity to save
money due to debt obligations.

20. Consumer Culture
 Consumer Culture – is a system in which consumption
is dominated by the consumption of commercial
products. (Arnold, 2010)
 Consumption of Market – made commodities and
marketing symbols is central to consumer culture.
(Arnold & Craig, 2005)
 Consumerist Society – is one in which people spend a
great deal of time, money, and energy to “consume”
commercial products, goods, and services.
 Consumerism – is the consumption of material goods
and services in excess of one’s basic needs. Closely
related to materialism, both shaping individuals’ self-
perception.

21. Conclusion
The things we own are extensions of our self, they are reflections of
who we are. When we possess something we can see it as part of
human development, but we should incorporate this thing well into
the extended self.
We buy things necessary for our survival and development as a
person, but we also need to guard ourselves so as not to easily fall
into the consumer culture. We should be more conscious and critical
of the things that we buy as not to confuse this with materialism.
Material blessings are fruits of our labor and success.
All we possess may change, vanish, and be rotten but the authentic
self will remain.

22. Thank you
“GRATIAS”