Propaganda I'm Not Falling For: Expensive Items = Luxury, to a Typical Nigerian
<p>Welcome back to my ongoing series where I dissect the "propaganda" I’m not buying into. Today’s focus is on a particular cultural nuance I've observed in Nigeria: the ingrained belief that expensive items automatically equate to luxury, irrespective of genuine quality or intrinsic value.</p><p><br/></p><p>This propaganda is particularly potent here. In a society where economic disparities are stark, and "making it" often translates into visible displays of wealth, the price tag itself becomes the ultimate arbiter of luxury. It's not necessarily about the craftsmanship, the durability, or the ethical sourcing of a product; it's about the sheer cost. A phone that costs a fortune, a car with a hefty price tag, or clothing from an internationally recognized (and often overpriced) brand instantly confers a sense of "luxury" and status. The message is clear: if it’s expensive, it must be good, and if you own it, you must be doing well. It taps into a desire for upward mobility and social recognition, often overlooking the true essence of luxury.</p><p><br/></p><p>I'm not falling for it. I believe that true luxury is about more than just a high price. It's about enduring quality, thoughtful design, functionality, comfort, and sometimes, the unique story behind an item. Often, I see people making significant financial sacrifices for items that are expensive but ultimately poor quality, or that offer little practical value beyond their brand name. This pursuit of "expensive" over "excellent" can lead to financial strain and a cycle of superficial consumption.</p><p><br/></p><p>For me, real luxury is a well-made, durable item that brings genuine joy and utility, regardless of its cost. It’s about smart choices and understanding true value, not just succumbing to the social pressure that conflates a hefty price tag with genuine sophistication or enduring quality. This propaganda distracts from what truly matters, encouraging a chase for appearances rather than substance.</p>
Propaganda I'm Not Falling For: Expensive Items...
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