If the material is all there is?
A survey by GfK NOP for the Children’s Society showed that out of the 1,225 adults questioned, 89 percent felt that children are more materialistic now than in previous generations. Evidence submitted to the inquiry from children themselves suggests that they do feel under pressure to keep up with the latest trends, the society added.
The poll is part of a larger inquiry into childhood and includes evidence by professionals and members of the public on issues such as lifestyle, learning, friends and family.
Professor of child psychology Philip Graham — who is leading the inquirys lifestyle theme — believes that commercial pressures may have “worrying psychological effects” on children.
“One factor that may be leading to rising mental health problems is the increasing degree to which children and young people are preoccupied with possessions; the latest in fashionable clothes and electronic equipment. “Evidence both from the United States and from the UK suggests that those most influenced by commercial pressures also show higher rates of mental health problems,” he said.
To me, it’s empirically obvious that those who believe they exist solely in the material are far more prone to mental health issues. There is a historical basis for the “mad scientist” stereotype after all. This is why I wholeheartedly concur with Daniel Dennett and endorse a scientific examination of both religion and secular materialism. I don’t think it’s religion that has much to fear from such an investigation.
On a completely anecdotal level, how many of you here are religious and have ever been diagnosed with a mental health issue? How many are not religious and have been so diagnosed? If you wish to remain anonymous, just don’t type your name in, as I’m not interested in knowing who’s crazy and who’s not. Let’s face it, I already have a fair amount of data on that.