Back in the 1990s, most children, when asked about their career choices, used to mention some conventional professions, like, say, medicine and engineering. The odd one would even mention sports, particularly cricket. Today, there is no dearth of those who want to be a YouTuber, and they want it to happen in a hurry. More than the choice to be a YouTuber, or a social media ‘influencer’, it is actually the ‘hurry’ that is at the core of many a problem. The root of this ‘hurry’ basically lies in the general perception that being a YouTuber, or a TikToker, is the easiest and sure-shot way of being rich; filthy, beyond-your-dream rich.
This is a shortcut to success; success defined by one’s wealth. They watch vlogs of popular ‘influencers’ flaunting their wealth and lavish lifestyle, and they want to be the next in line.
A study in the United States found how the music scene has changed over time. Previously, very few songs were made about money or wealth. That number has gone up, with artists talking about their wealth or desire for it. The Beatles’ claim of all you need is love is no more valid today. Materialism is the defining characteristic of the new generation.
This generation is surely the least empathetic as well as the most classist generation to have ever existed. One shudders at the thought of what things would be like for the generation after. Before I sign off, I find it in the fitness of things to clarify that I am part of the generation I am sitting in judgment against, and just as guilty of materialism. Frankly speaking, it is just that I know where I am wrong, and, therefore, have a chance of steering the course ahead.
AFFAN KHATTAK
ISLAMABAD
Soaring materialism
