Materialism vs. Consumerism — What's the Difference?

Materialism is a form of philosophical monism that holds that matter is the fundamental substance in nature, and that all things, including mental states and consciousness, are results of material interactions. According to philosophical materialism, mind and consciousness are by-products or epiphenomena of material processes (such as the biochemistry of the human brain and nervous system), without which they cannot exist.

Consumerism is a social and economic order that encourages the acquisition of goods and services in ever-increasing amounts. With the industrial revolution, but particularly in the 20th century, mass production led to overproduction—the supply of goods would grow beyond consumer demand, and so manufacturers turned to planned obsolescence and advertising to manipulate consumer spending.

(Philosophy) The doctrine that physical matter is the only reality and that everything, including thought, feeling, mind, and will, can be explained in terms of matter and physical phenomena.

The movement seeking to protect and inform consumers by requiring such practices as honest packaging and advertising, product guarantees, and improved safety standards.

The theory or attitude that physical well-being and worldly possessions constitute the greatest good and highest value in life.

The theory that a progressively greater consumption of goods is economically beneficial.

Concern for possessions or material wealth and physical comfort, especially to the exclusion of spiritual or intellectual pursuits.

Attachment to materialistic values or possessions

Constant concern over material possessions and wealth; a great or excessive regard for worldly concerns.

A policy of protecting and informing consumers through honesty in advertising and packaging, improved safety standards etc

(philosophy) The philosophical belief that nothing exists beyond what is physical.

A materialistic attachment to possessions.

Material substances in the aggregate; matter.

An economic theory that increased consumption is beneficial to a nation's economy in the long run.

The doctrine of materialists; materialistic views and tenets; called also philosophical materialism.

The theory that an increasing consumption of goods is economically beneficial

The tendency to give undue importance to material interests as contrasted with spiritual concerns; devotion to the material nature and its wants.

A movement advocating greater protection of the interests of consumers

Material substances in the aggregate; matter.

A desire for wealth and material possessions with little interest in ethical or spiritual matters

(philosophy) the philosophical theory that matter is the only reality