Final answer:
The term describing today's consumers' demand for best quality products at the best prices for all types of purchases is called consumerism. This concept is linked with the cultural shift towards valuing the acquisition of material goods as a source of happiness and success, propelled by the growth of credit availability and consumer financing options.
Step-by-step explanation:
The changing value described in the question is typically referred to as consumerism.
Today's consumers demand the best quality for the best price across all types of purchases. This behavior reflects a shift towards a culture that values material goods and the pleasure derived from acquiring them, a phenomenon that has been growing particularly since the mid-20th century. Through new financing options like credit and the personal line of credit, as well as a focus on achieving happiness and success through material possessions, consumerism has become embedded in the economic fabric of society, influencing not only individual desires but also the strategies of businesses. Moreover, consumerism has been turbocharged by a marked increase in the availability of credit, which has enabled individuals to make purchases beyond what their immediate funds would allow. With the rise of credit cards and installment plans, consumers have been inclined to purchase more, often with the expectation that their future earnings will allow them to cover these expenses.