Acquire Quote by John Berger
“Glamour cannot exist without personal social envy being a common and widespread emotion. The industrial society ... recognises nothing except the power to acquire ... No other kind of hope or satisfaction or pleasure can any longer be envisaged within the culture of capitalism.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Ways of Seeing by John Berger, 1972
In capitalist societies, desire for status fuels envy, making true glamour impossible without widespread social comparison.
In simple terms: Capitalism breeds envy, blocking genuine glamour.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and limit envy to find authentic fulfillment.
Themes
capitalism
envy
social status
authenticity
Mood
critical
reflective
Type
analytical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- marketing careers
- social media use
- personal branding
- luxury consumption
Key Concepts
consumer culture
psychology of desire
social comparison
Questions to Reflect On
- How does envy influence your personal goals?
- Can you find value beyond status symbols?
A Different Perspective
Envy can also motivate positive self‑improvement, not just hinder.
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![“If the State does not acquire supremacy over [vast private] enterprises, it becomes their puppet, and they become the real State.” quote by Bertrand Russell](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/bad/bertrand-russell-69_acquire_if-the-state-does-not-acquire-supremacy_1379.jpg)
