Consumption-centered

Describing a system, ideology, or society that places the acquisition, use, and disposal of goods and services at its core. It prioritizes consumer behavior, economic growth driven by spending, and often focuses on the satisfaction derived from material possessions. Such a system may evaluate success and societal well-being based on levels of consumption, potentially overlooking other factors such as environmental impact, social equity, or individual fulfillment beyond material gain.

Consumption-centered meaning with examples

• The marketing campaign was explicitly designed for a consumption-centered culture, emphasizing status symbols and the latest trends. Its success relied on fueling consumer desire and encouraging rapid product turnover, regardless of actual need or quality. This strategy directly impacts the environment due to increased production and disposal.
• The city’s infrastructure reflected a consumption-centered philosophy. Wide roads and expansive shopping centers were prioritized over public transportation and green spaces, catering to an individualistic, car-dependent lifestyle that promoted constant purchasing. This led to increased pollution, and a focus on material goods.
• Critics argued that the government’s economic policies were deeply rooted in a consumption-centered model, prioritizing GDP growth driven by consumer spending above all else. This approach, while boosting short-term figures, potentially ignored issues of income inequality and the long-term sustainability of natural resources.
• Researchers studying social trends found a growing disconnect within the consumption-centered society. Many people felt a lack of lasting fulfillment despite accumulating material possessions. They began seeking alternative values, exploring experiences over things, and moving away from a purely acquisition-based view on happiness.