The association of Hyper-Competitiveness and Consumerism with Ecological and Social degradation: A need for a Holistic and Responsible Approach for Environmental and Psychosocial Rehabilitation

Abstract

Human behavior and deeds occupy center stage in every major environmental problem confronting humankind. Environmental degradation seems to be related to a hypercompetitive economic system, consumerism, population growth, urbanization, intensification of agriculture, and luxurious lifestyle, which supports ‘self-indulgence into desires’ and not ‘needs-based life.’ This article describes how two key factors, hyper-competitiveness, and consumerism, are associated with evil motives, selfishness, and unethical behavior among individuals and contributing to environmental and social degradation. In a nutshell, consumerism seems to be a slow societal suicide. Hyper-competitiveness articulates greed, and such people are not only manipulative but also adopt vicious and conspicuous methods in besting others. It is inferred from our study that adverse psychological health effects of consumerism and hyper-competitiveness are contributing towards environmental and social degradation.