There’s a never-ending debate between spiritualism vs materialism in this world – each side defending their own values and beliefs.
Both of these ideologies come with their own set of good and bad sides. So, it can be pretty difficult to decide which one to support.
Well, to judge better, you must consider the context! So, let’s dig in to know the difference between the two.
What Is Spiritualism?
Spiritualism focuses on emotions and the spiritual values of life. It is the complete opposite of the above ideology. Spiritualists prioritize inner peace, personal growth, and enlightenment. Only then do they consider their life fulfilled.
Spiritualists know that material possessions are only a part of life and not the entire life. They know these things are temporary, so they shouldn’t affect life much. Thus, they don’t run after it, unlike materialists.
It is easy for spiritualists to gain satisfaction in every situation because they try to connect with the higher force for fulfillment. Their aims are different from the materialists, and thus the perspective too.
Now let’s learn about the other one…
What Is Materialism?
Materialism highlights that physical comfort is more necessary than spiritual values. It follows beliefs like: “Only when you have the material possessions with you can you be happy and get a feeling of fulfillment.”
Materialists believe that wealth possession is the ultimate goal of life because it can make your life comfortable. They even measure your success with the number of material possessions you own. They prioritize tangible objects and experiences over their emotions.
Now, to understand the difference better, let’s take a look at examples…
How To Properly Use The Words In A Sentence?
Since both these ideologies are quite different, it’s important to use them in the proper context. Here are a few tips to help you so you don’t interchange these words.
How To Use The Spiritualism Concept In A Sentence?
Spiritualism says that there’s something more to the physical world that we can only experience internally. The examples below will help you understand how to use this term correctly.
- We learned of Kim’s attraction toward spiritualism by seeing her meditate daily.
- By praying daily at the same time, the child became a follower of spiritualism.
- Spiritualism helps to understand the deeper meaning of life.
Thus, from the above examples, we understand that spiritualism is often seen in a positive light and linked with inner peace and personal growth.
Now, let’s understand the other one…
How To Use The Materialism Concept In A Sentence?
Materialism stands for materialistic possessions that you can buy with money. It focuses more on physical comfort and tangible objects being the most important thing in life.
Here are a few examples that will help you know when to use materialism in a sentence.
- Jim’s belief in materialism forced him to buy a car rather than invest the money.
- Materialism makes us superficial in nature.
- As materialism increased, so did consumerism.
Thus, from the above examples, we understand that materialism is usually portrayed in a negative light and indicates greed or selfishness.
Now, let’s move on to more examples based on context.
Examples With Context
The above examples only tell you how to use each term wisely in your sentences. However, if you have a deep conversation relevant to either of them, you need a better understanding of the context.
Here are a few contexts to help you when to use materialism or spiritualism.
1. Personal Development
While talking about personal growth, spiritualism is the right word to use. This is because spiritualism talks about peace, self-awareness, and mindfulness.
When you focus on spiritual growth, you learn more about your purpose in life. Once you understand the purpose, you get the right direction to work on and develop yourself in those aspects. Thus, spiritualism suits in this context.
2. Business And Entrepreneurship
In business contexts, the topic inclines more toward possessions. So, materialism is the right word.
Here, you talk about profits and adding more financial value for your shareholders. As these goals are tangible, you will also go with the concept of tangibility i.e. materialism.
Now, let’s move on to some complicated contexts here…
Exceptions To The Rules
Not all subjects can be distinctly compartmentalized as “spiritual” or “materialistic.” Sometimes, it completely depends on the values, beliefs, and opinions of the speaker. So, let’s take a look at more contextual examples here…
1. Personal Beliefs
While some people think materialistic life is more important, others believe spiritualism opens the door to satisfaction.
Of course, every individual is free to have their personal beliefs, and everyone must respect them. You must not force your perspectives or beliefs on anyone.
2. Health And Wellness
In cases of health and wellness, materialism involves following exercise and a healthy diet. However, spiritualism here can be used when you meditate, pray, or focus on mental or emotional health.
If someone goes on a vegan diet because their religion says so, it is called spiritual belief. But if a person avoids eating a certain food to stay fit, it is called materialistic belief.
3. Environmentalism
Again, the situation is a dilemma here. A materialistic person will focus more on the impact of environmental policies on the economy.
However, a spiritual person will think about ethics when it comes to harming the environment.
For example, a materialist will be happy with the invention of new cars and using it. But spiritualists will be worried about the pollution.
4. Creativity And Art
Materialism depicts the use of physical objects to frame art. However, spiritualism says we can use art to express emotions and values.
For example, a painter will use paint and canvas to showcase their art. But a poet will use words to showcase their art.
5. Social And Political Movements
Now, this is a tricky one. Here, you can use materialism as well as spiritualism, depending on the goals of the movement.
For example, if you are doing a movement against child labor, it has to be spiritualistic in nature.
On the contrary, if the movement is for unemployment, you should use the word ‘materialistic.’
6. Personal relationships
Like above, the choice between materialism and spiritualism varies here too. Some believe material possessions are a way of showing your love to others. Whereas a few believe that expressing your emotions (spiritual matter) is the best way as it strengthens the bond.
Thus, the term here depends on the values and priorities of the people involved.
Now, let’s move on to some mistakes in understanding the two…
Common Misunderstanding
Though these concepts seem so clear and simple, sometimes people still misunderstand them. So, to ensure you do not use them incorrectly, you’ll have to avoid these mistakes.
1. Equating materialism with wealth
Most people think that wealth and possessions mean materialism. However, this is a very shallow and wrong meaning of the concept.
The true meaning of materialism is that only physical matter and tangible objects are important. Moreover, it indicates that spiritual values are not important for a happy life.
Some people connect materialism to wealth alone. They fail to realize that some spiritual values can also be material. For instance, love and peace aren’t physically seen but they are also real and valuable in a materialist’s life.
2. Believing spiritualism is the opposite of materialism
Another mistake we make is by thinking that spiritualism restricts materialistic possessions.
No, spiritualism only says that materialistic possessions can help you in leading a daily life. Thus, it should not be the ONLY goal of your life or source of happiness. Take it as a part of life and focus on higher values.
Of course, spiritualism promotes simplicity and detachment. But it doesn’t ask you to completely neglect the materialistic world.
3. Ignoring the interconnectedness of materialism and spiritualism
While these two concepts are contradictory, both are essential for life. Thus, you need to establish a balance between them.
Materialism helps you live a comfortable life, whereas spiritualism makes you understand the purpose of your life. Thus, balancing both is important.
So, if it’s still confusing, get some help here…
How To Avoid These Mistakes?
Although you understand the mistakes, you may have some confusion. So, mistakes are inevitable. Now, it’s time to know how to avoid them.
- Understand the definitions of both concepts to know the nitty-gritty of the same.
- Don’t make assumptions or hold prejudices for any concept.
- Accept that both concepts are interrelated with each other.
A word from TheMindFool
Materialism focuses more on possessions. But a materialist will never be truly happy. On the other hand, spiritualism focuses on inner peace and development, leading to contentment. But it may not give spiritualists the physical or tangible rewards.
Ultimately, it’s on a person to follow the path based on their beliefs. None of them is incorrect, but striking a balance between them is important.
