Materialism in Marriage
Q&A Radio: 27 January 2013, Question 3
I answered a question on materialism in marriage on 27 January 2013. You can listen to or download the podcast of just this question below – or check out the whole episode of Philosophy in Action Radio.
Are materialistic couples less likely to have a lasting relationship? A recent study by Brigham Young University claims to show that concern for money causes stress in a relationship and that people who love money tend to be more impersonal and less passionate towards their loved ones. Is that right? Does it reveal some defect with a morality of worldly values?
My Answer, In Brief: The study in question was flawed – as is the standard distinction between "materialism" and "non-materialism." People should recognize the importance of both material and spiritual values in their pursuit of the best that this world (i.e. the only world) has to offer.
Tags: Capitalism, Ethics, Finances, Justice, Marriage, Psychology, Romance, Value-Density, Values, Wealth
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- Duration: 12:57
- Download: MP3 Segment (4.5 MB)
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Relevant Links
- Love of Money May Mess Up Your Marriage and Materialistic Couples Have More Problems, Poorer Quality Relationship
- Journal of Couple and Relationship Therapy: Materialism and Marriage: Couple Profiles of Congruent and Incongruent Spouses by Jason Carroll et al
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About Philosophy in Action
I'm Dr. Diana Brickell. I'm a philosopher specializing in the application of rational principles to the challenges of real life. I received my Ph.D in philosophy from the University of Colorado at Boulder in 2009. My book, Responsibility & Luck: A Defense of Praise and Blame, is available for purchase in paperback and Kindle. The book defends the justice of moral praise and blame of persons using an Aristotelian theory of moral responsibility, thereby refuting Thomas Nagel's "problem of moral luck."
My radio show, Philosophy in Action Radio, broadcasts live over the internet on most Sunday mornings and some Thursday evenings. On Sunday mornings, I answer questions applying rational principles to the challenges of real life in a live hour-long show. Greg Perkins of Objectivist Answers co-hosts the show. On Thursday evenings, I interview an expert guest or discuss a topic of interest.
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