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Materialist Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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materialist

[mษ™หˆtษชษ™riษ™lษชst ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

philosophy, belief

A materialist is someone who advocates for the belief that material possessions and physical well-being are the most important aspects of life. In philosophy, materialism suggests that only physical matter exists and that all phenomena, including consciousness, can be explained by interactions of matter. Materialists often prioritize tangible outcomes and may dismiss spiritual or abstract concepts as less meaningful.

Synonyms

consumerist, hedonist, pragmatist.

Examples of usage

  • She identifies as a materialist, focusing on acquiring wealth.
  • The philosopher presented a materialist view of consciousness.
  • In his writings, he critiques materialist beliefs.
  • Many modern societies exhibit materialist tendencies.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Philosophy

  • Materialism asserts that everything that exists is made of material substances.
  • This school of thought often opposes dualist philosophies, which suggest that the mind and body are separate.
  • Modern materialism encompasses various kinds of scientific perspectives, impacting how we understand consciousness and the universe.

Psychology

  • Research suggests that materialistic values can lead to lower levels of happiness and life satisfaction.
  • People who prioritize possession often report feelings of emptiness and lack of meaning.
  • Studies have found a correlation between materialism and anxiety, hinting at how it can affect mental health.

Pop Culture

  • Materialism is often critiqued in literature, emphasizing the moral dilemmas of a consumer-driven society.
  • Songs and movies sometimes portray materialist characters as unfulfilled, drawing attention to their internal struggles.
  • The rampant consumer culture depicted in reality shows and advertising reflects a rise in materialist values in modern society.

Environmental Impact

  • Materialism contributes to overconsumption, creating a significant strain on the planet's resources.
  • The environmental cost of materialistic lifestyles leads to increased waste and pollution.
  • Sustainable movements often challenge materialistic ideals, promoting minimalism and eco-friendly practices.

Origin of 'materialist'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originated from 'material', which comes from the Latin 'materialis', meaning 'of matter'.
  • The term began to be actively used in the 19th century during the rise of industrial capitalism.
  • The philosophical sense was popularized by thinkers like Karl Marx, who contrasted materialistic views with idealism.

The term 'materialist' derives from the word 'material', which comes from the Latin 'materialis', meaning 'pertaining to matter'. The usage of 'materialist' can be traced back to the 19th century, during which time the philosophy of materialism gained prominence as a counterpoint to idealism. It was notably discussed in the context of various philosophical movements, including empiricism and scientific rationalism. The evolution of the term reflects broader societal shifts towards valuing empirical evidence and material wealth over spiritual or philosophical considerations. Throughout the 20th century, the term has also evolved to encompass critiques of consumer culture and the potential moral dilemmas posed by an overemphasis on material wealth.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,324, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.