#tim kasser

[cullin]

What Is Happiness?

[townietime]

Tim Kasser on Voluntary Simplicity

     In "Ecological Challenges, Materialistic Values, and Social Change" (2011), ecopsychologist Dr. Tim Kasser states: “Not only do people who voluntarily simplify their lives tend to be happier, they also tend to be more socially responsible and make better environmental stewards.  In sum,” he goes on to say, “it is the case that a strong focus on materialistic values is negatively correlated with happiness, as actual wealth and possessions tend to have null or perhaps very small positive associations with happiness in economically developed countries.”

     Helpfully, Kasser also reveals to us when we are at our most materialistic and, therefore, most likely to purchase (or even to steal) impulsively, and the answer is very common-sense: We are most materialistic when we feel that our safety and security is less than certain.  Next time you’re feeling insecure, ask yourself why. Is your situation real or imagined?  What actions can you take—as opposed to purchases you can make—to remedy that situation?

[holstee]

The High Price of Materialism

Through visual aid and simple break-down, psycologist Tim Kasser takes a stab at explaining the ways that becoming engulfed by our consumer-driven culture can affect our planet, our community, and our general sense of true happiness.

Kasser differentiates between the "good life" and the "goods life," showing the ways that being too interested in material posessions can leave us feeling empty, less meaningful, and only driven towards owning more stuff. 

Wonderful insight, with thanks to Unconsumption for their post. More information on Kasser and this cause via the Center for the New American Dream can be found here.

[nicseton]

A great explanation of why values are important for a happier, more equal world. (h/t Matt Williams)

[theoneironauts]

Materialism

The following is an excerpt from The High Price of Materialism by psychologist Tim Kasser: 

Ask yourself why you really want the money, looks, or fame. The truth is that money is only good for buying food, shelter, safety, and other necessities; it can never really buy self-esteem, love, or freedom. If what you are really after is feeling good about yourself, figure out more direct paths than making money, trying to become beautiful, or impressing people with your status. Ask yourself whether materialistic values have actually worked for you, or whether they continue to perpetuate your problems instead. If you find it is the latter, try new, more direct ways to satisfy your needs. Take a look at what your needs are. Are you lonely? Feeling disconnected from your community? Looking for a more challenging or fulfilling job? Want more opportunities for self-expression? Once you identify your true psychological needs, it will be easier to find clearer paths to meet them.

Everyone should read this book, in my opinion. It really changed how I view myself, my possessions, and my goals. Materialism is the root of many of the psychological problems that pervade American society.

[nc4l]

The High Price of Materialism 

Center for a New American Dream

[mochente]

The High Price of Materialism

Psychologist Tim Kasser discusses how America's culture of consumerism undermines our well-being. When people buy into the ever-present marketing messages that "the good life" is "the goods life," they not only use up Earth's limited resources, but they are less happy and less inclined toward helping others. The animation both lays out the problems of excess materialism and points toward solutions that promise a healthier, more just, and more sustainable life.

[wordupnerdup-blog]

get yer learn on.

materialism, consumerism and us.