Definition
Mammonism refers to an excessive attachment or devotion to material wealth, often at the expense of spiritual values or ethical principles. It may also refer to the pursuit of profit or financial gain as the ultimate goal or measure of success, regardless of moral considerations or social impact.
Pronunciation
US English
UK English
Part of Speech
Noun
Synonyms
Materialism, consumerism, greed, avarice, covetousness, acquisitiveness, cupidity, affluenza, wealth fetishism.
Antonyms
Altruism, philanthropy, selflessness, generosity, benevolence, charity, nobility, idealism, asceticism.
Word Forms
| Part of Speech | Words |
|---|---|
| Noun | None |
| Verb | None |
| Adjective | None |
| Adverb | None |
Example Sentences
-
The widespread mammonism in modern society has led to a culture of consumerism and environmental degradation.
-
Many religious leaders warn against the dangers of mammonism, which they see as a form of idolatry and immorality.
-
The outrage over the executive’s bonuses and golden parachutes highlighted the mammonism of Wall Street and corporate America.
-
The protagonist of the novel struggles with her own mammonism, as she is torn between her desire for material success and her principles of social justice.
Usage
The term mammonism comes from the root word “Mammon,” which is a term used in the Christian Bible to represent wealth or material possessions. Mammon is often portrayed as a false god or an idol that people worship instead of serving God. Over time, the term mammonism has come to represent the tendency or temptation to value material wealth above other things, such as spiritual, moral, or social values.
Mammonism is often used to criticize or condemn a culture, group or individual who prioritizes economic gain or financial success above all else. It can refer to the excessive consumption of material goods, the exploitation of workers and resources in pursuit of profit, or the lack of concern for social justice and environmental sustainability. While mammonism is seen as a negative tendency by many people, it continues to be a powerful force in modern society.
The word mammonism can also be combined with other prefixes and suffixes to indicate different variations or aspects of the concept. For example, “neomammonism” refers to a new or modern form of mammonism that is particularly prevalent in capitalist societies. “Antimammonism” refers to a rejection or opposition to the values of mammonism, often by those who prioritize spiritual or ethical values over material wealth. Additionally, “mammonistic” can be used as an adjective to describe a person or behavior that is reflective of or influenced by mammonism.