materialism
Meaning: In philosophy, the view that only physical matter exists and that all phenomena, including consciousness, can be explained in terms of material processes; in everyday use, an excessive preoccupation with material possessions and wealth.
Philosophical materialism (also called physicalism) is a major position in the philosophy of mind, arguing that mental states are identical to or produced by brain states. Historical materialism, developed by Marx, analyses social change through the lens of economic and material conditions. In popular usage, materialism is pejorative, suggesting shallow values focused on consumer goods rather than spiritual or intellectual fulfilment.
Examples
- Philosophical materialism holds that consciousness is entirely a product of physical processes in the brain. 哲学唯物主义认为意识完全是大脑物理过程的产物。El materialismo filosófico sostiene que la conciencia es enteramente un producto de los procesos físicos del cerebro.哲学的唯物論は、意識は完全に脳内の物理的過程の産物であると主張する。철학적 유물론은 의식이 전적으로 뇌의 물리적 과정의 산물이라고 주장한다.
- Marx's historical materialism argues that economic forces are the primary drivers of social and political change. 马克思的历史唯物主义认为经济力量是社会和政治变革的主要驱动力。El materialismo histórico de Marx argumenta que las fuerzas económicas son los principales motores del cambio social y político.マルクスの史的唯物論は、経済的な力が社会的・政治的変革の主要な推進力であると論じている。마르크스의 사적 유물론은 경제적 힘이 사회적·정치적 변혁의 주요 동력이라고 주장한다.
- The growing materialism of modern society has been blamed for rising levels of anxiety and dissatisfaction. 现代社会日益增长的物质主义被归咎于焦虑和不满情绪的上升。Se ha culpado al creciente materialismo de la sociedad moderna de los niveles cada vez más altos de ansiedad e insatisfacción.現代社会におけるますます強まる物質主義が、不安や不満の増加の原因であると指摘されている。현대 사회의 증가하는 물질주의가 불안과 불만의 수준을 높이는 원인으로 지적되고 있다.
Pronunciation
Usage Guide
Context: academic, media
Tone: neutral
Origin & History
From Latin materialis (of or belonging to matter), from materia (matter, substance), originally meaning timber or wood. The philosophical sense emerged in the 18th century.
Cultural Context
Era: Modern
Generation: All ages
Social background: Universal
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