Materialism Has Taken Control of Our Critical Faculties

It is quite interesting in 2017 the way we've been bred to view the world. Through the lens of a materialist, the world seems sensible in many ways that it may not have 20 years ago, and nowhere is this more evident than in the way products are marketed to the average consumer. We often have no second thoughts when we see a coffee mug with the Zelda logo on it, because the product represents our possible deep seated love of Zelda. We've learned to place ultimate importance into our products without a thought about if the product really represents our love the way we originally had it. It is strange how we purchase items to reflect our chosen identities, often which are based on our love for consuming other merchandise. There is really no logical connection between goods like video games and drinking coffee, although it may be the case we do both at the same time. However. it is not to be looked over the fact that a Zelda coffee mug is not The Legend of Zelda the game. There is a clear distinction which arises in the awakened consumer however. One that easily spots these unnecessary bridges and attempts to make it a habit to make this rejection purely subconscious and instantaneous.

Companies know how easily the average consumer subjects to brand loyalty, and this is especially evident in the world of sports. If you find the true sports fanatic for instance, that may not have a lot of filters to ignore their consumerist impulses, it is easy to sell them their favorite team's logos on pencils, napkin holders, car seat covers, and a whole host of other examples of merchandise that although displays the logo of their affection, has little to do with the actual game they enjoy watching. I believe this actually contributes to a rather watered down feeling of enjoyment after a while, because when you become so immersed in and defined by your purchases, you often lose the instant feeling of wonder and connection you feel when you simply turn on the TV and see the game, appreciating it for what it is in its truest form. Hopefully, in 2018, we can transcend the superficial replacement for our greatest loves, and get back to what is most important and often costs little to no monetary transaction whatsoever.