Final answer:
Consumerism in affluent societies contributes to well-being by providing enjoyment and countering stress. People's decision-making is influenced by their emotional state, and they prioritize short-term pleasure to maximize happiness. They believe that spending money on things that provide temporary enjoyment will lead to greater overall happiness.
Step-by-step explanation:
In affluent societies, consumerism is a pervasive feature that contributes to human well-being. Many individuals find enjoyment in buying manufactured goods, which can counteract the negative effects of stressors. For some people, shopping can even be a response to feeling depressed. This behavior may replace other forms of enjoyment that were important in earlier societies, such as engaging in creative activities or spending time with others.
Additionally, people's decision-making is influenced by their state of mind and feelings. Traditional consumer theory often ignores these factors. For example, people tend to value a dollar lost more than a dollar gained, which can affect their spending habits.
Furthermore, people often make consumption decisions based on their desire for happiness. They consider what will make them the happiest, as well as the cost and trade-offs involved. This process resembles the step-by-step utility maximization process. People choose to spend money on things that provide short-term pleasure because they believe it will increase their overall happiness.