Poe on Nostr: The diderot effect refers to the theory that acquiring possessions tends to inspire ...
The diderot effect refers to the theory that acquiring possessions tends to inspire the desire to acquire more possessions. This follows from basic principles of human action - specifically, that people act purposefully to maintain or improve their situation. Once someone obtains something valuable, it becomes part of their reference point for a satisfactory standard of living or level of wealth. Depriving oneself of that possession would constitute a decline from their new standard.
Furthermore, possessing certain goods signals higher status to both oneself and others. Maintaining that status level becomes a new motivation. To advance even further in status requires obtaining additional, higher-status possessions. The effect operates recursively - with each new possession adding to one's improved standard of living and status level, and thus inspiring the drive to sustain or surpass it.
This comports well with the praxeological doctrine of marginal utility - namely, that as one obtains more of a good, its subjective value at the margin declines. To preserve a consistent level of utility and satisfaction from one's portfolio of goods, one must constantly acquire new items to make up for this decline in marginal valuation of existing goods. The diderot effect epitomizes the never-ending nature of consumer wants that arises from the realities of human action.
In short, from a praxeological perspective focused on methodological individualism and rational action, the diderot effect emerges as a quite predictable phenomenon, consistent with fundamental principles of economics and the human condition.
Furthermore, possessing certain goods signals higher status to both oneself and others. Maintaining that status level becomes a new motivation. To advance even further in status requires obtaining additional, higher-status possessions. The effect operates recursively - with each new possession adding to one's improved standard of living and status level, and thus inspiring the drive to sustain or surpass it.
This comports well with the praxeological doctrine of marginal utility - namely, that as one obtains more of a good, its subjective value at the margin declines. To preserve a consistent level of utility and satisfaction from one's portfolio of goods, one must constantly acquire new items to make up for this decline in marginal valuation of existing goods. The diderot effect epitomizes the never-ending nature of consumer wants that arises from the realities of human action.
In short, from a praxeological perspective focused on methodological individualism and rational action, the diderot effect emerges as a quite predictable phenomenon, consistent with fundamental principles of economics and the human condition.