The Material and Economic Self

Material Self

The material self, according to William James, pertains to the objects, places, or even people
which have the label “mine”. Such possessions are viewed as extensions of individuals'
identities.

For instance, your clothes reflect certain aspects of your personality and you designate them as
“my wardrobe”.

William James: Influential American Philosopher and Psychologist

• Born into a prominent intellectual family, with his brother Henry James becoming a renowned
novelist.

• Significant contributions to psychology include pragmatism, functionalism, and the study of

consciousness.

• "The Principles of Psychology" (1890) explores aspects of human psychology, including

perception, emotion, habit, and will.

• Introduced concepts like the "stream of consciousness" and the "James-Lange theory of
emotion."

• Developed the philosophy of pragmatism, stating the truth of an idea is determined by its
practical consequences and usefulness.

• Influenced fields such as education, religion, and politics.

William James' Concept of the Material Self

• The material self refers to aspects of an individual's identity attributed to possessions,

relationships, and physical characteristics.

William James' work discusses the concept of the "material self," which refers to aspects of an
individual's identity attributed to possessions, relationships, and physical characteristics.

• This includes tangible items like clothes, money, and possessions, as well as intangible aspects
like family and social connections.

This includes tangible items like clothes, money, and possessions, as well as intangible aspects
like family and social connections.

• The body is central to the material self as it is the physical vessel through which individuals
interact with the world.
The body is often considered central to the material self because it is the physical vessel through
which individuals interact with the world and experience their existence. It is the most immediate
and tangible aspect of one's identity.

• Clothing is a component of the material self, serving as a means of self-expression and

reflecting aspects of one's personality, social status, and cultural identity.

Clothing, as you mentioned, can also be considered a component of the material self. Beyond
mere practicality, clothing serves as a means of self-expression and can reflect aspects of one's
personality, social status, and cultural identity. The way individuals choose to dress can
communicate their perception of themselves and their desired image to others.

• The material self highlights the interconnectedness between individuals and their possessions,
relationships, and physical bodies.

Overall, the concept of the material self highlights the interconnectedness between individuals
and their possessions, relationships, and physical bodies. It acknowledges the role of these
external factors in shaping and expressing one's identity and sense of self.

Two identified critical parts of the materials self are money and family. James argued that
when people lose a family member, a part of them gets lost as well. Similarly, when people
have a significant amount of money and lose it, they also change. Understanding the impact of
materiality to humans is important in understanding how a person perceives and values
themselves and their relationship to society.

William James emphasized the importance of family and money as crucial components of the
material self, arguing that their loss can significantly impact an individual's sense of identity and
well-being. Family members are deeply emotional connections, and losing them can lead to
grief, loneliness, and a fundamental shift in one's sense of self. Money, on the other hand,
provides security, social status, and freedom, but can also have detrimental effects on self-
esteem, lifestyle, and relationships. Financial loss can lead to feelings of insecurity, shame, and a
reevaluation of self-worth. Understanding the impact of materiality on individuals is crucial for
understanding their perceptions and relationships with others and society. This knowledge can
inform interventions and support systems for individuals experiencing loss or financial hardship.

"I shop therefore I am" is a slogan originally produced in 1987 by the famous artist Barbara
Kruger who primarily dealt with consumerism and feminism. Through this artwork, she made a
statement about man's material consumption. This also attracted the attention of businesses in the
United States and was later on printed on shopping bags, shirts, and other products for
consumption.

"I Shop Therefore I Am" by Barbara Kruger

• Created in 1987 by artist Barbara Kruger.
• Critiques society's emphasis on material consumption and its impact on identity.
• Echoes René Descartes' "Cogito, ergo sum" philosophy, replacing thinking with shopping.
• Suggests identity is defined by consumption habits, not thoughts or consciousness.
• Gained attention for provocative message, later appropriated by businesses in the U.S.
• Commercialization of the slogan underscores Kruger's commentary on consumerism.

Barbara Kruger's 1987 slogan "I shop therefore I am" critiques society's emphasis on material
consumption and its impact on identity. It echoes René Descartes' philosophical statement,
"Cogito, ergo sum," suggesting identity is defined by consumption habits. Kruger's artwork
gained attention and was commercialized, making the slogan a commodity for consumers
experiencing loss or financial hardship.

The slogan was not explicitly explained, however, as it challenges an audience with varied
perceptions. It is clear that the slogan makes an individual identify themselves with the act of
shopping. Furthermore, it does not point only to the act itself but to the things bought for the self.
Thus, one could eventually say, Thave, therefore I am."

"I shop therefore I am" is a slogan by artist Barbara Kruger that challenges viewers to associate
their identity with shopping and the items they buy. It highlights the influence of consumerism
on modern identity formation, suggesting that individuals derive meaning and identity from their
possessions. The slogan can also be interpreted as a commentary on the commodification of
personal identity, as in a consumer-driven society, one's worth is often measured by their
purchasing power and possessions. Overall, it encourages reflection on the relationship between
consumer culture and individual identity.

Consumer Culture
Consumer Culture on Our Sense and the Material Self
Culture refers to the behaviors and traditions found in human societies. Thus, Consumer culture
involves humans establishing certain norms and practices as consumers of goods and services.
Consumer Culture has evolved through the years. Phillips (2003) states that there are various
studies made on consumers, some of which are as follows:

• Some people envy those with higher social status for having a higher capacity to buy goods that
they desire.
• Rich people or people with higher status constantly change their consumption habits to
continue having a distinguished image in society.
• Consumer’s choice of products reflects how they see their current selves or what they aspire to
be.
• Consumers choose products they value the most, provided they are presented with varied
options.
• A person's choice of products may represent their feelings, aspirations, and personality.
• The choice of products and services may reflect originality and send a message regarding one’s
status.
• Certain individuals consider shopping and consuming services as leisure activities because of
their wealth and freedom to choose.
Culture is important to consumption and identity. Its impact and influence subtly penetrate
human consciousness from the past to the present. The idea of consumerism as attractive and
enticing makes people desire to have more, thereby making people think that they want more
than what they already have. Consumers decide on purchases based on their identity or what they
want others to see them, otherwise, the process creates despair and grief because a portion of
their identity is lost as well.

The Effect of Materialism on Oneself

Studies which have been made to identify the effects of materialism on an individual as implied
and influenced by Taylor (2015) discuss the growing materialism in the west discontent.
Twenge, et al (2012) stated in their research that the later generations focus more on wealth,
fame, and image. Studies conducted in the United States also found that materialism has a
negative correlation to happiness, meaning people who tend to be materialistic are less happy.
Moreover, those who take pleasure in buying things tend to get lower levels of satisfaction.
• The more materialistic a person is, the higher the possibility that may develop psychological
issues such as depression, narcissism, and paranoia.
• Materialism may lead to a lower sense of well-being because of the tendency to resort to
consuming products and services to experience external gratification
• There is a need to assess oneself in terms of the extent of influence of consumer culture on
one’s identity and well-being. One must identify where to truly anchor themselves to build
confidence and self-esteem.

The Spiritual Self

•The Spiritual Self, according to William James, is who a person is at the core. This
is the aspect of the self that is most intimate, concreate, or permanent and
includes an individual’s personality, core values, and conscience that do not just
change throughout one’s life.
•The spiritual self can be explored through the
process of introspection, which involves looking inward and analyzing deep
spiritual, moral, and intellectual questions disregarding objectivity. •The spiritual aspect of the
self is the inner essence, the part of the self that connects the
person to the sacred, the supernatural, and the universe.
• The spiritual self enables
the person to experience a feeling of oneness with a higher being and the universe and gives a
deeper purpose or meaning of one’s life. Understanding and
naturing the spiritual self is as important as with the other aspects of the self.
•Spirituality is connected with religion. Religion is an organized system of ideas
about the spiritual sphere or the supernatural along with associated ceremonial practices by
which people try to interpret and / or influence aspects of the universe otherwise beyond their
control. All religions recognize the importance of
spirituality in one’s life. One’s spirituality maybe expressed through religion and participation in
religious rituals and ceremonies ( Haviland, Prins, Walrath, &
McBride ,2013).
• Spirituality and religion fulfill numerous social and psychological
needs, such as the need to explain human suffering and death. Through the practice of religious
activities such as prayers people may find comfort, security, and stability in times of sufferings,
loss, insecurities, and uncertainties. Spirituality and religion may be source of love, hope, and
affection (Brown & Parrish,2011).
•The spiritual self develops through interaction observation and imitation. The family, school,
and church play a very important role in a child’s spiritual development. Spirituality begins at an
early age but develops throughout life as
people continuously interact in the environment. Most spiritual people realize we are more than
our physical bodies. Many believe we are soul that is only abiding in this particular body for a
time, but has resided in other bodies in the past. Many
believe we originally came from the spiritual realm and that we have the potential to return there.
Many also believe that what sent us into this world was a higher
part of our beings.

What is the importance of spiritual self in your life?

When we're spiritually healthy, we feel more connected to not only a higher power, but to those
around us. We have more clarity when it comes to making everyday choices, and our actions
become more consistent with our beliefs and values

Spiritual Self and Its Importance

• The spiritual self is the most permanent of the two selves: material and social.
• It is our subjective and intimate self, expressing the meaning and purpose of life.
• Spirituality is a way of seeking and expressing meaning and purpose.
• It signifies the quality of relationships with God, self, others, institutions, and God's creation.
• Spirituality is marked by respect, forgiveness, generous service, and prayer.
• It is a path of direct and personal connection with the divine.
• It embraces all faiths, social and political ideologies.
• It aids individuals in spiritual, emotional, or physical distress, crisis, or discomfort.
• It can be a healing process leading to personal development.

How do you describe a spiritual person?

A spiritual person knows that we are all One, and consciously attempts to honor this Oneness. A
spiritual person is a kind person. So, you can go to church every Sunday and say your prayers
every day, without caring about loving yourself, others and the planet.

How can you express your spiritual self?

10 Easy Ways to Get in Touch With Your Spiritual Side

Meditation. Starting off with my personal favorite here. ...
Feel your feelings. ...
Get out in nature. ...
Gratitude. ...
Serve others. ...
See the good in others. ...
Look after your body. ...
Connect with like-minded people.

What are some spiritual examples?

Some examples of how people get in touch with their own spirituality include:

Breath work.
Meditation or quiet time.
New age spirituality.
Prayer.
Service to their community.
Spending time in nature.
Spiritual retreats.
Yoga
Concept of Spirituality

The spiritual self is our core self, encompassing our subjective and intimate aspects. It develops a
level of spirituality, expressing meaning and purpose in life. It involves relationships with God,
self, others, and God's creation, marked by respect, forgiveness, and prayer. Spirituality leads to
deeper communion with the divine, embracing all faiths and ideologies. It aids individuals in
spiritual, emotional, and physical distress, aiding in self-awareness and personal development.

1. Kaluluwa (Tagalogs), ikararuwa (Ibanags), or karuruwa (when it departs). They all

originate from the root word duwa, which means two. This points to the two realities of
the soul: physical that connects the soul to the body and its life, and spiritual, where the
soul exists.

2. 2 Kadkadduwa (Ilokanos). The name is derived from the word, kadduwa, which means
companion. The term Kad implies the constant companion or inseparable partner.
Therefore, kadkadduwa means the union of the physical body and the soul.

The Dungan Iloilo

The dungan, believed to grow alongside the body, is weak in infancy and requires nurturing and
protection. A healthy adult dungan has excellent physical health, intellect, and senses.

Strong will power implies a strong dungan, indicating intelligence and psychological abilities to
influence others. This can lead to spiritual competition or a competition between two dungans,
with the defeated one having a weaker dungan.

Dungans are believed to be able to transform into insects, and children are advised to eat well or
something before bed to prevent their dungans from leaving their bodies and being killed in the
kitchen.

Spirituality involves the exploration of our selves and the connections we form with the divine,
ourselves others and nature to discover meaning and direction, in life. In beliefs the soul exists in
two realms; the realm where it dwells and the physical realm where it is linked to the body.
Terms like "ikararuwa " "kaluluwa," and "karuruwa" symbolize this duality. Moreover the
concept of "dungan" is seen as an aspect of ones being developing alongside the body and
influencing intellect well being and even ones ability to impact others. Rituals and ceremonies
not unite communities to honor their faith and principles. Also serve as channels, for expressing
and reinforcing spiritual concepts. Examples include ceremonies of dedication rites marking life
transitions acts of worship and purification rituals.
The dungan May also leave the body either voluntarily or involuntarily as presented in the
following instances: 1. when a person is asleep and sees himself/herself in his/her dreams

2. when a person is abruptly awakened

3. when a body is physically maltreated or beaten

4. when a child is frightened

5. when the dungan is caught by a bad spirit or engkanto

Rituals and ceremonies

Rituals and ceremonies are prevalent in Philippine culture, involving a series of activities using
gestures, words, and objects. These ceremonies are part of religious traditions and are a common
feature of human society where people come together to celebrate their faith, beliefs, and
practices. Manifestations of rituals include:

1. worship rites and sacraments of organized religions and cults

2. rites of passage
3. atonement and purification rites
4. oaths of allegiance
5. dedication ceremonies