Consumerism and spirituality in modern society

Discussions regarding the tension between materialism and spiritual fulfillment highlight the impact of excessive consumerism on modern society. In Brazil, research from the Akatu Institute indicates that 76% of consumers do not practice conscious consumption, potentially leading to social degradation, financial issues, and oneomania.

To explore these themes, various cultural works serve as sociological references. Films and series such as ‘Clueless’, ‘Friends’, ‘Fight Club’, ‘Wall-E’, and ‘Confessions of a Shopaholic’ illustrate how consumerism is often used to seek social status or emotional refuge.

Philosophically, the conflict between material accumulation and spiritual purpose suggests that fulfillment does not require abandoning material life, but rather changing one's relationship with it. Spiritual traditions suggest that participating in economic and social life with detachment and integrity allows individuals to find meaning beyond finite material goods.