Final answer:
Material culture consists of a society's physical objects, while nonmaterial culture includes the society's intangible ideas, attitudes, and beliefs. The relationship between material and nonmaterial culture is intrinsic, as physical objects often symbolize nonmaterial cultural aspects.
Step-by-step explanation:
Material culture refers to the tangible and physical objects or belongings of a group of people. In contrast, nonmaterial culture includes the ideas, attitudes, and beliefs of a society, which are intangible. The examination of changes in what Americans consider luxuries or necessities indeed reflects changes within the material culture. However, it is important to understand that material culture is not limited to luxury items. Everyday objects, like furniture, appliances, books, dishes, and even a toothbrush, are part of material culture and can reveal much about a society's way of life.
Nonmaterial culture and material culture are interconnected; for example, a metro pass is a physical object but also represents the concept of capitalism and the acceptance of paying for public transportation. Similarly, clothing and hairstyles are material but also represent nonmaterial aspects such as social norms and practices.
Cultures are dynamic, with new items being added to material culture continuously, which in turn alters nonmaterial culture, shifting other cultural components. These changes reflect the evolving values and beliefs within a culture, illustrating how deeply interwoven material and nonmaterial cultures are.