Final answer:
The passage suggests that consumerism leads to a temporary satisfaction and might prevent people from experiencing life's true value, hinting that fewer possessions could potentially open up richness in experiences.
Step-by-step explanation:
The central idea of the passage seems to revolve around the consequences and philosophy of consumerism in society. The passage suggests that while owning things may bring temporary satisfaction, the pursuit of material possessions can lead to a life not necessarily fulfilled by what truly matters. It touches on how consumer credit has made it easier for people to own more than they can afford, implying a cycle of never-ending desire. Furthermore, it considers the psychological impact of consumerism, linking it to a modern form of happiness that replaces traditional, more meaningful experiences of togetherness and creative endeavor. Ultimately, the passage leans towards the interpretation that having fewer possessions could lead to a richness of experiences, and that a preoccupation with material goods might prevent people from appreciating the impermanence and true essence of life.