Consumerist materialism and (Un)happiness: A literature review

Abstract

In this paper we carry out an extensive review of the scientific literature on the links between materialism and happiness, from a multidisciplinary approach that includes psychology, communication, economics and ethics. The dominant line in the literature insists on linking greater materialism with a lower self-perception of happiness and well-being, and with a greater propensity for depression. In this review, we take into account the evidence accumulated in this regard, the current course of research and the challenges still not clarified by the academy.