İslam İktisadı Açısından Gösterişçi Tüketim Yaklaşımı

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From past to present, “consumption” is a concept that has acquired different meanings. The basic definitions, which first started in the context of human physiological needs, have now become more about sociological and psychological needs. The theory of conspicuous consumption, an economic theory put forward by Thorstein Veblen, has emerged as a reflection of this expansion of meaning. “Conspicuous Consumption” refers to the arbitrary expenditures made by the rich and the classes trying to emulate them for the purpose of showing off, regardless of need. Such expenditures feed individual desires, the search for identity and the construction of status rather than meeting basic needs. Conspicuous consumption has become more prominent in the current period when the whole world is fighting inflation, widening the gap between the rich and the poor. While ostentatious expenditures prevent the rich and the poor in society from respecting, conversing and understanding each other, they imprison individuals in their own chaotic world. Based on this reality, this study aims to identify the factors that lead to ostentatious consumption, generate awareness and evaluate them in terms of Islamic economics. The study is important in terms of revealing the ontological differences between the Islamic economic approach and traditional economics and contributing to social common sense, as well as understanding the dangers of conspicuous consumption. As a result of the examinations, according to the Islamic economic understanding, conspicuous consumption is not seen positively in the light of the Quran and the Sunnahs of the Prophet Muhammad, and is criticized especially in terms of hypocrisy, waste, and the correct use of property. According to the principles that Islam has set on this issue, it is seen that it is more appropriate to act moderately and away from extravagance in spending against conspicuous consumption in terms of human material and spiritual satisfaction.