In a world where societal norms are shifting in favor consumerism, some people think that everyone in the world desires to own a car, a TV set and a fridge, which can be attributed to the convenience they bring about. In my opinion, however, the drawbacks of this development in the form of shaping a materialistic society and environmental problems far outweigh the advantages.
One of the strongest arguments behind the universal desire to own a car, a television, and a refrigerator is the practicality they provide. Admittedly, these items have already become basic necessities, without which modern life would be extremely difficult. People drive cars to cover long distances, watch television as a form of escapism and relaxation, and use refrigerators to preserve food in fresh conditions. Without such appliances, it would be much harder to maintain both comfort and efficiency in daily routines. In this light, the growing aspiration to own cars and essential household goods can be seen as largely advantageous.
That said, the benefits of these possessions remain secondary to their adverse social impact. A growing obsession with material goods fosters a society where people are judged by what they own rather than who they are. Such materialistic tendencies can create divisions between the wealthy and the less privileged, leading to discrimination and social exclusion. In South Korea, for example, car ownership is often perceived as a symbol of social status. Those who do not possess a car may find their social relationships and reputation negatively affected, especially when compared to peers who already own one. This illustrates how the universal desire to own cars and appliances can reinforce inequality and shape a consumerist culture that prioritises possessions over values.
Beyond materialism, such consumeristic behaviour inevitably takes a huge toll on the environment. The large-scale production of cars, televisions, and refrigerators consumes vast amounts of raw materials and energy. Since consumerism is fuelled by constant demand for production, it also results in the overuse and mismanagement of natural resources, thereby causing depletion in the long run and creating excessive waste in dumping areas. A case in point is the United States, which has cleared vast green areas to obtain resources in order to meet the rising demand for consumer goods. This pattern highlights how the pursuit of convenience and status often comes at the expense of environmental sustainability.
In conclusion, while owning a car, a television, and a refrigerator can bring undeniable convenience to people’s lives, the drawbacks are far more serious. By encouraging materialism and causing significant environmental harm, this trend poses challenges that outweigh its benefits to society.