As a useful tool in developing an understanding of modern culture, the concept of post-materialism can be considered in reference of three distinct concepts of materialism—ontological, existentialistic, and ethical or political-sociological. However, the word 'post-materialism' is most often used to refer to materialism as a values system relating to the desire for fulfillment of material needs such as security, sustenance and shelter. Another referent is the historical and dialectic materialism by Marx and Engels. The philosophical definition of materialism concerns the philosophical argument that matter is the only existing reality.
Ronald Inglehart is credited with developing the sociological theory of post-materialism. In the seventies, after extensive survey research, Inglehart postulated that the Western societies under the scope of his survey were undergoing transformation of individual values, switching from materialist values, emphasizing economic and physical security, to a new set of post-materialist values, which instead emphasized autonomy and self expression. He
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