Between the 1940s and 1980s, an increasingly populous black middle class began to emerge, its members making advances in a wide spectrum of professions. The civil rights movement of the 1950s and 1960s opened the door even wider for African American advancement. As African Americans strived to achieve the American dream they lost sight of who they were.
Often times individuals fall victim to the drawbacks of financial success. Their happiness suffers at the price of material fulfillment. This is epitomized in Praisesong for the Widow with Avey and Jay’s relationship as they struggle to escape from the poverty on Halsey Street, his and Avey’s romantic relationship dissolves and their emotional detachment increases. Jay, in particular, becomes alienated from his roots in Harlem and his sense of himself as an African American. Ultimately even Avey can no longer recognize the man she loves in the remade Jerome Johnson who "viewed the world and his fellow man according to a harsh and joyless ethic" (Praisesong for the Widow, p. 131).
Avey also gets caught up in materialism as well. Normally when people move up socially or have things that they did not always have they like to flaunt it so that everybody knows. We read in Praisesong for the Widow that Avey is aboard a ship where the weather is extremely hot and she is wearing a cardigan and gloves. Marshall also puts emphasis on the fact that she is wearing a very uncomfortable girdle. We concluded that she uses these material things for self-fulfillment even though it never really works because she is still not at ease.
What we want to know:
Is materialism still a problem in modern day African-American relationships? If so, how does it affect the African-American community?
As college students do you feel like you need certain material things to feel like you belong?
Melissa Dutra
ReplyDeleteBeing someone outside the African American community, I can't really have an opinion on whether materialism is still a problem in modern day African Am. Relationships. However, materialism in general has become a huge issue in society. People want the new Ipad, Iphone, television, clothes...and the list goes on and on. My brother used to be all into getting the latest cellphones...well the latest everything, and then he stopped because he saw how much money it takes to keep up with trends. Also, Ipads are all the rage now but really how much different is it than an Iphone? It just has a bigger screen. Society is getting so wrapped up in "Having to get the next new thing", that were missing the bigger picture. The bigger picture can be, related back to wellness and wholeness. Getting immersed into the consumer buzz shouldn't take you away from family, and friends. Also, it shouldn't depress your pockets so much that your on the brink of not being financially stable. Further, we shouldn't have to feel like we need things to feel good about ourselves. As a college student, sometimes I do feel like I need material things to feel like I belong. Its natural to see someone with something nice, and want it for yourself, but you have to be concious about your means. If you can't aford something, you can't aford it. You can most of the time live without it too. ***At the end of the day, its the person that matters! Clothes, shoes, ...ect. are just things!
Alexa MacKenzie
ReplyDeleteBeing materialistic in a relationship is subjective to the situation. Ir depends on what you are either accustomed to or have come to expect from a person. A huge strain can come on a relationship when for instance, one counterpart loses their job and then the way of life is altered for both people. Some people live their lives around money and material things which is the kind of people who would probably not even get into a relationship with someone who didn't have the same expectations. In college again I feel this is up to the person you are talking to. Obviously if your in a sorority you are expected to have material things.
Hallie Bowns
ReplyDeleteEven from the outside looking in, materialism is obviously an issue. But it's not with just African Americans- it's with every race. Everyone wants the latest, newest, most up to date whatever. We all want new hot clothes. We wanna look good and draw attention. Is it all needed to feel good about ourselves? No, but sometimes we need the praise and the complements to know that we are indeed appreciated outside of our minds. These material items are merely that- items. They have no meaning other than the fatc that you are now more than likely dead broke and still have rent to pay. And for what? To look good, or to have the most mobile and quickest internet connection? This is an interracial and universal problem, not just blacks or whites or even just Americans. this is something we face world wide. Geez, Technology these days....
Kandis Hankerson
ReplyDeleteYes I feel that materialism is still a problem in relationships because I have seen situations where girls would only go for the guys that have all the money and “bling bling”. Though there would be guys that would try and talk to them, but because they looked like they did not have anything, they would not give them the time or day. It affects the African-American community in the sense that because they want that flashy lifestyle they will go above and beyond to keep it. There have been situations where people would go without paying their utility bills just to purchase a pair of Jordan’s or Nikes.
When I was in high school I felt as if it was a fashion show and I won’t lie I was a part of it, though luckily I had a job to support my shopping addiction. Now that I am in college and that I am unemployed, I do not really care about all the material things. Only thing that I make sure I get done still is my hair, but not clothes.
AML2600 said...
ReplyDeleteNathaniel Watson
Is materialism a problem in the african american community? Well technically yes, but only because materialism is a problem in the american and human community in general, which includes the black community. Is materialism worse in the black community than in any other community? I dont think so, but like every other problem with the black community, its a problem that's augmented by the media due to the smaller populatiion of african americans. It's also augmented by that most of the fruits of our materialism go toward white CEOs rather than the advancement of the black community. But meanwhile girls are out there buying iphones, ipads, every generation of ipod, and macbook pros. Old white ladies and white celebrities buy furs, LV bags, CLOSETS FULL of clothes, every self image changing product (i call them SIC products) money can buy, and other foolishness. Not to say that white people are more materialistic than black people but theres absolutely positively sure as hell no way to think that black people are more materialistic than white people. Look at the '49 goldrush, the trail of tears, the conquistadors, the wild west, my super sweet sixteen party, buying NY for a bead, enron, the great depression, the recent stock market crash, BP's lack of safety features in their oil rig, George bush not caring about black people, also george bush's crazy oil obsession (see iraq war), Jersey shore, Chia pets, beanie babies, the entire history of video games, the segue, the snuggie, the "mini-mall", las vegas, Hollywood, New york, almost the entire west coast.....it goes both ways. every race has materialistic people.
Althea Daley
ReplyDeleteI think materialism will always be an issue within the human race. It isn’t simply a black thing or a white thing. Everyone has their own preference on the things they like and would spend their money on to make them happy. It isn’t a poor or a rich thing, everyone spends based on what they can afford. I think often times there is more focus on what Black people are doing with their lives and how they spend their money or lack thereof. If a person is rich people are always going to say they are showing off or spending too much money on “unnecessary” things. If they are poor and decide to splurge a little just to treat themselves, people are going to have something negative to say. I don’t think people always lose their identity when they have more money but it is life changing. You can’t expect people to still dress the same or do the same activities they used to when they can now afford to do better.
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ReplyDeleteAdrianne Carter
ReplyDeleteOther than the obvious school supplies and books, as a college student I don't really feel that I need much to feel as though I belong. That huge bill that we all pay for tuition is enough of a show off to satisfy anyone who is looking to be flashy. I think that materialism gets in the way of nearly every community that there is, and the African American community is no different. I believe that materialism can work for the benefit or the detriment of the community. The more privileged can work together in competition to help bring up their poorer counterparts. It is also possible that the more poor people may feel negativity towards the richer community and further the gap that stands between them. it is also possible that the more privileged of the African American community actually are exploiting the rest of their community in which case they earn the ire that they are receiving.
Stephen Yanes
ReplyDeleteIn my experience the more materialistic a person is the more they seem to have problems with the world around them. Someone who was born and raised with a silver spoon in their mouth tends to be angrier when even the smallest thing goes wrong especially when it comes to relationships. This behavior can be seen in not in the African-American community but in the general population. Of course this is purely speculation and depends entirely on the background of the specific individual and their personality. Some people may not have a problem flaunting money in peoples faces, while others may be more reluctant as they do not want to be seen as better than someone else. I feel that people with money may not necessarily mean to be gaudy in their mannerisms, but they are only because it is the standard that they are used to. People have to realize that everyone comes from a different place and has their own problems. Whether money is a problem for some or not it does not give anyone the right to alienate another person because of their financial status, though that seems to be the norm in most societies.
Ashlee Thompson
ReplyDeleteAfrican Americans are not the only materialistic race. Everyone can be materialistic, like everyone has the potential to lose themselves in the material world if given the opportunity. I think materialism would affect any community not just the black community because it would cause the members of the community to resent each other based off of what they possess materially. I think the people who call others materialistic are jealous honestly. If I have the money to buy a Bentley, some Dolce stilettos and a Louis dress with a purse to match; I would. You are only gonna think im materialistic because you cant afford it. What one person thinks is a waste of money may well be worth it to the next guy. I was raised to know that you can’t just go waste your money on material things but not everyone was raised in my house by my parents with the same morals and values. Yes money CAN change people but it doesn’t always happen. It all depends on what environment you came from.
Gerald Law
ReplyDeleteThe problem with materialism is not the fact that we place emphasis on material things. It's the fact that in the process, we neglect and disregard the things in life that really matter. Materialism breeds selfishness and people who can help others by stimulating the community/neighborhood choose to buy items that only benefit themselves. It also causes jealousy, which encourages competition amongst those involved. These people go out of their way to impress peers and out-do the competition, but don't realize that their actions are not benefiting them in anyway.
I think African-Americans are very materialistic and, a lot of times, our moneys are mishandled because we feel like we have to keep up with the Jeffersons. If we approached material possessions for what they are, just material possessions, we'll have a better chance of benefiting ourselves because our values will be placed on something of real importance.
Cameron Leonard
ReplyDeleteMoney does change people to a certain extent. When black people get money such as entertainers and athletes come from nothing and when they get money they spend it on friends and expensive things. On another hand if black people have money they are humble about and remember where they came from. But if you are poor and see you see someone rich walking a poor person might instantly say why are they showing off but really they might think I wish I had what they have. Black people who come across might also feel as though they are now better than other poor black people when at one time they were just as poor if not poorer. Clearly if you have more moneybyou are goning change there are.going to be different. You will upgrade yourself because I don't believe anyone wants to be poor and even if people are content with it they all want money. At some point I think we all try to change and impress our peers and society around us.
Abigail Remillard
ReplyDeleteIn a material world, the sense of fashion and style are always changing along with the need from people to keep up and essentially spend more money to get the latest trends and hottest outfits. Lower social classes look up to the economically inclined people with a sour face and a sense of resentment towards the better off. Whether this is done on purpose or subconsciously is does happen. We unfortunately live in an environment that is governed by wants and some bitterness and jealousy is protruded onto the higher social classes.
Relationships might take a toll on these stressful trends and from the pressure of trying to keep up with everyone else. I don’t think this is a valid reason as to why two people should have a falling out, if one has material problems that badly then they need to prioritize their life a little better. Jay does indeed put pressure onto his marriage with Avey. Is too much money a bad thing? Is having the stable foundation that allows money to be spent in a splurging manor a bad thing? No, but there is a point that can be reached to where is effects you and might turn you away from your roots. This is shown with Jae as a prime example, and Avey does not like this.
In college, we are turned from the big fish in the pond to the little fish. We sense a need to fit in and be accepted to find friends, and succeed in college. There are trends that are easy to categorize, not that this is a bad thing, but you can see where people spend their money. I personally feel like I need that new pair of shoes, and that new laptop to be more “accepting” from my friends. This shows that maybe my friends are true, but the truth is that they don’t care what I have, but as an individual you feel more liked, and up –to-date with society, and maybe for once you are on top.
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ReplyDeleteMaterialism, defined as the preoccupation with or emphasis on material objects, comforts, and considerations, with a disinterest in or rejection of spiritual, intellectual, or cultural values. I believe that materialism will remain an issue for the African American community, coming from a history where we were never one top receiving financial stability would surely change things. Im sure that i would do things differently if were to aquire a sufficeint amount of funds. I would buy more expensive clothing, a nicer car, and a bigger house, not to show off but you get what you pay for and better clothing and a better car would last longer than cheaper ones.
ReplyDeleteAs a college student i believe there are certain things you need to "fit in" like having a laptop, but having one only makes you better and its a definite convenience. Keeping up with the latest things doesnt have to be a bad thing, having the best things just add to your life, how you feel and act is where the issue comes in. You should remain humble at all times and never let what you have effect how you treat others.
Depending upon the person will determine whether or not these upgrades in life would cause them to lose their identity. I dont think that a person will change unless they want to be someone else from the start. I dont think money can cause one to lose who they are, just make them better. I would take it as a upgrade rather than a lost.
Laquinnesha Thompson
Ms. Otgna K. Dorno
ReplyDeleteMaterialism can be problem in African American relationships today but it would not be an issue that is unique to the black culture. Consumerism pervades our society today and so people are likely to become obsessed with certain items or allow these items to designate them to a certain social ranks. Whether or not the people around them find it acceptable depends on the culture of that social network. If the item purchased is what that group values, it would be looked at as an investment; otherwise people will judge your purchases as if their approval was necessary. It is very likely that is an individual was to come across larger sums of money than they originally possessed, they would invest it on the items adored in that community (remodeling the home, flashy cars, vacations etc); simply because that environment has taught them that acquire that item is a priority. But this has less to do with race and more to do with the cultures established by certain social networks.
Personally I don’t feel as though there are any items that can be classified as the-must-have-item-for-college-kids but I may be wrong. There are just so many different people from so many different places with so many different lifestyles that it would be a bit difficult trying to get everybody, or even large majority to place the highest value on any particular item or to let that item determine whether you are a college kids or not. Basically, if you have a course schedule or have had one in the past six months and have not graduated, you are a college student. And nothing else is necessary.
Laura Turner
ReplyDeleteMaterialism, in my opinion, a problem that encompasses more than just the problematic area of relationships. Sure, in certain circumstances it can be the reason for a break up because someone feels inferior or is made to be inferior to material objects, but it is much more dangerous than just the immediate affects. Materialism has become an accepted social norm that we as Americans now base our lives around. When asking a random person if they believe that money can buy happiness, the answer you would receive would most likely be an affirmative. Isn’t that what we see everyday? The media bombards us with images of how being successful means owning extravagant luxuries, wearing clothes that cost as much as a car (or at least a car that the “unsuccessful” would own), or owning a car that costs as much if not more than a house. This flaw in our ideology has become embraced by society to an extent that makes it a relevant, if underlying, problem in every aspect of our lives. At least concerning the emotional well-being and tranquility of our lives.
So my answer would be a resounding YES materialism is a gargantuan problem in relationships and this can be seen also in how we live our lives. No one wants to own a cell phone of ten years ago, or wear clothes that were found in the garbage, or walk around with everyone looking on with a judgmental air, thinking you inferior because you’re not living up to the “normal” image. However, this being said, there is less social pressure here in college than in high school, but this is based solely off my own experiences. It could be that college life is more mature and open-minded, or perhaps it all depends on the crowd that surrounds you.
Clive Hall
ReplyDeleteMaterialism is a big problem in the African American community, and I believe its an issue in all communties. When what a person has defines what kind of person they are is a major problem. Being materialistic has a negative connotation already, but being able to afford all the things you want, should never be something worth being ashamed of. The relationships between African Americans are hindered from materialism, but i think thats just jealousy, a trait we all have. When you see someone who you believe to be your peer,but hey seem to have more thant you financially, its common to becom jealous of that person. I dont think that having "materials" or being materialistic make you a bad person or causes you to lose sight of who you are, its the jealous individuals around you who cause you to change, if you do change.
As a college student and a regualr teen, there are definitely soe thins you need to stay in the loop,only because you would want to be able to do what everyone around you is doing, such as updating your status or tweeting, using the latest apps for your phone and wearing the best clothing.
Kurtis Nelson said...
ReplyDeleteI think materialism effects all people of all races. There are certain fashions amongst certain groups that is considered more "flashy" than the materialism another culture may have but it is still materialism. I believe by nature poorer people will be more concerned with their material possessions than the wealthy who can just go buy another one if something of theirs breaks. This said I believe the rift amongst materialistic people exists between the poor and wealthy or in some cases the religious and the secular. But I believe materialism effects all races equally. I believe the issue with college students is the same. College students for the most part are poor, but if they have rich parents and are fully supported by them then they will have all the nice stuff and hardly care about it. If they have to support themselves then they will be more materialistic from a stand point that they care more about and cherish the material things they do have. This is what being materialistic is to me.
Hannah Bryan
ReplyDelete(Crap, this is late… I forgot. AGAIN.)
I think materialism can be a problem in any racial or class group. Depending on money and objects for any type of security other than financial is dangerous for anyone. Money cannot make up for the emotional, mental, social, and psychological connections that we need.
I’ll share a personal little side story. Last summer I lived in Ragans Hall. It was a tremendous difference from living in Kellum Hall. Everything a poor college student could want was there: a lovely kitchen area; personal bathrooms; rooms where I could shut the door and be by myself, even though I had roommates; even beautiful furniture and décor. It was during that summer that I briefly became depressed. I barely saw my roommates and very few of my friends were in town. I didn’t have people, and none of the comfort of a deluxe hall could settle the unease in me. Leaning on money and other things for that type of support is not wise in the least.
Finally, to say “money does not change you” is very far from the truth. We are always changing. Everything we experience influences us, be it small or monumental. It is in our nature to change. If a poor person were to hypothetically experience sudden wealth, that person would certainly become different over the course of time. I think it is also in our nature to forget. Why do you think history repeats itself, despite our attempts to change it? We can say we’ll always remember our roots, but that is much easier said than done.
Vanessa White
ReplyDeleteYes I believe that materialism is still a problem in modern day African-American relationships because I feel that a majority of African American social groups judge others on what they do or do not have. For instance, the latest shoes, clothes, bags, etc. When I say I’m referring more so to middle school and high school age group. When speaking of older groups like college students and beyond I still feel this way. I don’t agree that I feel that I need certain material things to feel that I belong because I feel that my friends would still be my friends without the materialistic things. I do feel that yes I go and buy things that I like to look good but I’m not sure if that makes me feel like I belong more because of that. This materialistic obsession affects the African American community in a negative way, because that’s where most of our money is going. We are the race that banks look to give loans and hand out credit cards too because they know that we have a hard time paying back the fees. For instance, the term “ghetto rich” is something that I have seen in plain sight; you live in a run-down house without mattress beds, but yet you have on the latest styles and all the latest electronics. This puts a question into my mind about our race. We still have a lot to work on.