The Paradox of Consumption: Material Happiness vs. Environmental Impact

Ricardo Ramos; Maria José Rodrigues; Isilda Rodrigues

doi:10.55845/jos-2025-1285

Authors

Ricardo Ramos Transdisciplinary Research Center in Education and Development (CITeD)
Maria José Rodrigues Transdisciplinary Research Center in Education and Development (CITeD)
Isilda Rodrigues Education and Psychology Department, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.55845/jos-2025-1285

Keywords:

Consumerism, Happiness, Ecological Footprint, Sustainability, Relationships

Abstract

This article analyses the correlation between consumerism and happiness, investigating whether owning more material goods contributes to increasing happiness levels. The research addresses the issue of the ecological footprint since the consumerist lifestyle contributes significantly to increasing environmental impact. The methodology adopted is quantitative, using a questionnaire to collect the data. The data was statistically analysed to identify patterns, correlations, and possible differences between the groups, considering variables such as age, monthly income, gender, and the region of the planet where the participants lived most of their lives. The results show that monthly income does not influence happiness, and that young people are concerned about the environment. However, those aged 18 to 24 are the ones who acquire more goods for the sake of status, especially males. They tend to prioritise personal relationships over material achievements as they get older. This work will contribute to the discussion on the role of consumerism in contemporary society, reflecting not only on the implications for individual happiness but also for global sustainability.

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