Desire for wealth

Definition

The strong inclination or aspiration to accumulate material wealth, often associated with the pursuit of luxury and comfort.

Analogy

Think of it like a game of Monopoly. Players aim to acquire as many properties (wealth) as they can to win the game. Similarly, in history, individuals, societies, or nations may have a desire for wealth that drives their actions and decisions.

Related terms

Capitalism: An economic system where private entities own the factors of production and operate for profit.

Mercantilism: A national economic policy designed to maximize the exports and minimize the imports for an economy. It promotes imperialism, tariffs and subsidies on traded goods to achieve that goal.

Consumerism: The theory that an increasing consumption of goods is economically beneficial; a preoccupation with consumer goods or material possessions rather than spiritual or intellectual values.