Geethartha Chinthane-80: Status-driven culture fuels material desires

Udupi: In today’s society, social pressure is increasingly influencing children and young adults, leading to materialistic aspirations and a need to match their peers. In classrooms, if some children have iPhones, others feel compelled to ask for one too, not wanting to seem less privileged. Similarly, children who see their friends arriving at school by car often feel dissatisfied if they themselves come by scooter or bike.

This trend goes beyond gadgets, extending to evolving technologies like 3G, 4G, and now 5G, and high-end car brands like Benz and Toyota, with newer models consistently entering the market. The same is true for houses, where people strive to build more attractive homes than their peers.

Despite inherent differences in personality and influence, influence is increasingly overshadowing character, as people constantly aspire to match others. Maintaining social status has become a priority, rooted in family environments.

When women in households expect to uphold or elevate family status, men often agree and feel driven to increase income. However, if women prioritize reasonable income and discourage unnecessary aspirations, it helps in establishing true values.

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