‘two ‘profiles In Splurging’ By Randall Essay Example

evident flaws of consumerist culture. Considering how society places great importance on material possessions, it becomes apparent that those who are poor lack meaning and inevitably face exclusion from society. An examination of social stratification confirms that the more belongings one possesses, the higher they are positioned on the ladder of status and prestige. For instance, I envision that the guards at an exclusive hotel would be more inclined to open the gate for a luxurious and expensive-looking car rather than a homeless or disheveled individual. Similarly, many Ivy League educational institutions are designed to groom future leaders in politics and business, excluding those who are economically disadvantaged. This discrimination also extends to the workplace, where Ivy League graduates secure managerial positions while those who are economically disadvantaged compete for entry-level roles. This is because our consumerist society thrives by excluding anyone who does not conform to the culture of constant purchasing. Since humans are social beings, most of us strive to keep up with consumerist trends (Twitchell). The individuals and groups who are deemed "cool" and successful at the top of the social ladder, earning collective admiration from those who are less successful, are highly dynamic. This dynamism is necessary to ensure that the materialistic culture continues to progress, even if these individuals and groups were to remain stationary in their success.When technology devices like the new iPhone are revealed, some people can immediately afford to buy them, regardless of the price. Others will save up until they can afford the device. However, after a few months, when they are close to affording it, a newer and more expensive model is introduced. The wealthy

quickly grab the new model while others are left behind as usual. This cycle of changing trends and fashions ultimately drives consumerism and influences many Americans to continually purchase items, not for their own sake, but to enhance their identity. In other words, by flaunting fashionable gadgets and accessories, consumers implicitly convey that they "belong" or "succeed." However, this identity is surface-level and lacks substance. It is based on a desire for ambiguous achievements such as "status."

Twitchell acknowledges that materialism can lead to inequality and shallow behavior, but believes that consumerism is inherently ingrained in human nature. However, not all instances of using material possessions to form an identity adhere to this viewpoint. It is erroneous to assume that the desire for identity solely drives all property acquisitions.

For example, acquiring a car may be motivated by ostentatious value, but the primary reason for purchase is often its functional purpose as a vehicle. This mindset also applies to acquiring large houses and expansive properties. For some individuals, property and wealth are not an end in themselves, but a means to an end.

The same reasoning can be extended to argue that consumerism is not the sole reason behind Bill Gates' immense wealth. While he is widely recognized as the world's richest individual, it is plausible that his goal was not solely focused on monetary gain, but rather on creating highly demanded computer products such as Windows on a global scale. Amassing billions of dollars may have been a by-product and necessary component of his business.

Furthermore, wealth is utilized as a measure of achievements and can serve as a competitive tool for effectively distinguishing one's accomplishments. As one

achieves greater success in areas like business, their income increases allowing them to indulge in what others perceive as luxuries. However, their perspective on essential costs also shifts as they gain more funding.

In an article titled 'Profiles in Splurging' for the New York Times, Randall Patterson provides support for Twitchell's main argument. The article presents various stories about four individuals that serve as evidence of the prevalence of consumerism. By narrating the experiences of these Americans who found happiness through their purchases, the author challenges the belief that money cannot bring joy. Whether it was obtaining a versatile lawn mower, a luxurious Mercedes car, or a picturesque grand house, these profiles showcase how consumerism helped them achieve their version of the American Dream. Thus, Twitchell's thesis is not only valid but also demonstrates positive outcomes.

The statement "We live through things, we create ourselves through things and we change ourselves by changing our things" can be understood in various ways. There are two contrasting viewpoints that cannot be reconciled, each of them logical. Whether individuals or society are defined by materialism depends greatly on the acquisition or lack thereof of wealth. Certain individuals seek consumerism as a means to give their lives purpose through material possessions, whereas others obtain these items for practical purposes or to achieve non-materialistic objectives.

References:

The passage "Two Cheers for Materialism" is an excerpt from James Twitchell's book titled Lead Us Into Temptation: The Triumph of American Materialism, which was published in 1999. The article can be found on the website https://files.nyu.edu/gmp1/public/twitch.htm. I personally accessed it on September 12th, 2013.

In October 2000, Randall Patterson's article "Profiles in Splurging" was published by The

New York Times Magazine. The article can be found at http://partners.nytimes.com/library/magazine/home/20001015mag-patterson.html and was accessed on September 12, 2013.