To us, the argument for material well-being might seem…
““To us, the argument for material well-being might seem uncontroversial. But in the eighteenth century, material prosperity was frequently condemned as "luxury" by religious and civic moralists. It was not a morally neutral word but a pejorative one, connoting not comfort but excess, the possession of nonnecessities. The notion of luxury was intricately connected with the existence of a recognized social hierarchy: what was necessary for those of high status was regarded as excessive for those of low status. Luxury meant the enjoyment of material goods not appropriate to one's station in life. Critics of luxury saw it as confounding social ranks. P. 40””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Rise of the Modern World, 2005
Material wealth was historically viewed as excessive luxury, tied to social hierarchy and moral judgment.
In simple terms: Wealth was seen as excess, not neutral.
Key Takeaway
Recognize how status influences views on consumption.
Themes
social class
morality
wealth
hierarchy
culture
Mood
reflective
critical
analytical
Type
philosophical
historical
When to use this quote
- historical analysis
- policy debate
- personal finance
- social commentary
Key Concepts
luxury
social stratification
ethical perception
Questions to Reflect On
- How does your social status shape your view of luxury?
- Can excess be ethical?
A Different Perspective
Luxury can be redefined in modern egalitarian contexts.