How Much is Enough?

Service Description

This segment dives deep into the concepts of greed, materialism, and the personal decision of determining what constitutes enough in our lives through an engaging mix of film, philosophical texts, and short fiction. We will watch Nomadland (2020), a film that follows individuals living a nomadic lifestyle after losing everything in the Great Recession. This film prompts discussions about alternative ways of living and challenges us to consider what is truly necessary for a fulfilling life beyond material possessions. We will read excerpts from To Have or To Be? by Erich Fromm, where Fromm contrasts two modes of existence: one focused on possession (having) and another on being and experiencing. Fromm's insights push us to rethink our values and question the societal pressures that equate success with material wealth. Finally, we will analyze Anton Chekhov's short story “The Lottery Ticket”, which reveals the latent greed and dissatisfaction in a couple's life triggered by fantasies of sudden wealth. This story serves as a powerful illustration of how the pursuit of material gain can overshadow true happiness and contentment. In our discussions, we will tackle essential questions such as: How do greed and materialism influence our sense of fulfillment and contentment? What are the psychological and social impacts of prioritizing material possessions over experiences and relationships? How can we find a balance between our material needs and our desire for a meaningful, fulfilling life? What lessons can we learn from alternative lifestyles, such as those depicted in Nomadland, about our own definitions of necessity and abundance? Join us in exploring how much is enough and what truly constitutes a well-lived life as we approach the season of giving and receiving.

Contact Details

• Steeplejack Brewing Company, NE Broadway, Portland, OR, USA

  mary@premiseinstitute.com