Final answer:
Marie Kondo's 'spark joy' philosophy is related to minimalism and critiques of materialism, emphasizing the reduction of possessions to what is personally meaningful, potentially leading to a better quality of life and less environmental impact.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Kondo method of keeping only the things that "spark joy" is closely related to the concept of minimalism and critiques of material accumulation. Marie Kondo's proposition encourages individuals to keep items that have a deep, personal meaning to them while discarding those that do not, which can be seen as a practical application of minimalist philosophy. Minimalism emphasizes the value of reducing one’s belongings to the essentials, removing the unnecessary and focusing on the quality of life rather than the quantity of possessions. This approach speaks to a broader cultural critique of a materialistic society, where continual consumption and accumulation of low-quality goods are often seen as a norm. In the lens of sustainability and personal well-being, this also suggests a reduction in the consumption of resources, potentially leading to less environmental impact and a more focused, purposeful lifestyle.
Inspired by Japanese traditional design and Zen philosophy, minimalism is not just an aesthetic choice but also a moral standpoint that seeks the essence of living and freedom through simplicity. Reduction becomes a significant action, embodying the notion that one might live more fully and sustainably by owning less, reflecting values such as those found in the concept of ikigai, the Japanese idea of a fulfilling and value-driven life. Additionally, as modern society reevaluates the need for excessive work hours to sustain a high level of consumption, Kondo's approach aligns with the idea that quality of life could improve by decreasing the cycle of buying and disposing of goods, fostering more time for community, leisure, and personal growth.