Possession-centric

Possession-centric describes a worldview, philosophy, or behavior pattern that places primary importance on the acquisition, ownership, and display of material possessions. It emphasizes the value of things, often associating them with status, happiness, or personal identity. Individuals or societies characterized as possession-centric tend to prioritize accumulating wealth and displaying material goods as markers of success, often at the expense of non-material values like relationships, experiences, or environmental sustainability. The focus is inward on the individual's accumulation and the competitive comparison with others. It is a framework for the value of goods.

Possession-centric meaning with examples

• In a possession-centric culture, designer labels and expensive cars are seen as essential indicators of status, fueling constant consumption. The media often reinforces this notion, showcasing the lives of the wealthy and emphasizing the desirability of acquiring the latest gadgets and trends. Advertising is a tool to create wants instead of needs to feed this focus on material goods, resulting in a relentless pursuit of 'more'.
• His personal struggles stemmed from a deeply rooted possession-centric mindset. He relentlessly pursued wealth and status, measuring his self-worth by the size of his house and the brands he wore, causing neglect in his family, friends, and himself. The emptiness of his lavish life proved that material wealth could not provide him true contentment, pushing him further and further.
• The overemphasis on quarterly profits and economic growth often leads to possession-centric business practices. Companies may prioritize maximizing short-term gains by cutting costs, often at the expense of workers' well-being, product quality, or environmental responsibility. The desire to extract capital at any cost is a key sign of this focus.
• After years of living a possession-centric life in the city, she sought a quieter existence in the mountains. She decided to embrace a life focused on experiences and relationships over accumulating things, choosing a simple existence and a deep connection to nature. This shift involved redefining happiness, putting material possessions to a lower rung.
• The study argued that the prevalence of social media, with its curated portrayals of luxurious lifestyles, contributes to possession-centric aspirations. It creates a constant comparison and competition that further encourages the pursuit of material possessions. It highlighted a negative impact on mental health, especially in younger demographics, and it promoted a constant urge to consume.