So many birds at the feeding table!

In which context/definition? Actual? Conventional? Philosophical? Value system? Historical socio-economic? Monetary?

Sometimes it means someone who believes physical matter is the only reality and everything else can be explained in terms of matter and physical processes, including thoughts, feelings, consciousness, etc.

Philosophical materialism can involve metaphysical claims, mind-body problems, etc.

Materialism as a value system is the focus on acquiring and possessing goods and is the typical conventional use of the term associated with consumerism and pursuit of wealth/status. Often involving physical comfort, pleasure and sensory experiences over intellectual or spiritual pursuits.

In historical socio-economic contexts it’s too politically volatile, so I won’t elaborate on this aspect :rofl: but the summary is that materialism in this way is that material conditions are primary drivers of historical change and social development.

Plus other ways “materialism” can be used.

I’m assuming you’re talking from a conventional consumerism point? In which case, speaking for myself, I feel pretty confident that I don’t actually focus on physical comfort, pleasure, etc over other pursuits. :slight_smile:

Though I only read 80 books last year and wish I had more time for many more of the thousands on my list. :sweat_smile: I spend a good deal of time in intellectual pursuits. It is one of the many reasons I love AI so much. It actually helps accelerate my learning exponentially. I’ll convert you into an AI lover eventually ol’ froggy friend.

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