The human brain is designed to seek pleasure and avoid pain. In today's consumerist society, this means that people are constantly bombarded with messages telling them what they should want, need, or desire. This can lead to feelings of dissatisfaction and even depression when those desires are unmet. When everything becomes a product that can be bought and sold, it is easy for people to lose sight of their own needs and wants and become consumers instead of individuals with unique personalities.
Consider the phenomenon of "retail therapy." People often feel a temporary sense of satisfaction after buying something new or indulging in a luxury item.
This feeling quickly fades, leaving them feeling empty and searching for more. The constant cycle of consumption leads to an addiction to material possessions that can be harmful to both the individual and society as a whole.
When sexuality is commodified and reduced to objects and products, it can have detrimental effects on intimacy and relationships. Romantic partners may come to see each other as tools to fulfill their needs rather than individuals with their own thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Sexuality becomes a transaction rather than a shared experience, leading to less meaningful connections between partners.
The commodification of desire creates a culture where people are encouraged to compare themselves to others and feel like they never have enough. Social media platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube promote unrealistic beauty standards and lifestyles, making people feel like they are always falling short. As a result, many people struggle with self-esteem issues and body image problems.
The psychological cost of living in a society that commodifies desire is high. It leads to a lack of self-awareness, dissatisfaction, depression, addiction, and even suicide. Individuals should strive to resist the pressure to conform to social norms and instead focus on finding true happiness within themselves and their relationships.
What is the psychological cost of living in a society that commodifies desire?
Desire can be viewed as an intrinsic human need, which should not be commodified by any means. In a capitalistic society where materialistic values are prioritized over all else, commodifying desires may lead to various negative outcomes such as anxiety, depression, loneliness, and even physical health issues.