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Advertising Quote by John O'Donohue

“Consumerism is the worship of the god of quantity; advertising is its liturgy. Advertising is schooling in false longing.” quote by John O'Donohue
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“Consumerism is the worship of the god of quantity; advertising is its liturgy. Advertising is schooling in false longing.”

John O'Donohue

About This Quote

Source Essay: The Art of Living, John O'Donohue, 1999

Society treats material accumulation as sacred, while advertising creates artificial desires.

In simple terms: Materialism is worshipped; ads create false wants.

Key Takeaway

Question consumer desires.

Themes

materialism advertising culture

Mood

critical reflective

Type

cultural analytical

When to use this quote

  • shopping habits
  • media consumption
  • personal finance
  • environmental activism

Key Concepts

consumerism psychology marketing

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you differentiate genuine need from marketed desire?
  • What values replace quantity as a life guide?
A Different Perspective

Advertising can empower personal agency, not just manipulate.

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