Ownership Include Intangible Things Essay

Jean-Paul Satre, a philosopher of the 20th century, stated that “ownership extends beyond objects to include intangible things…”. I believe that this is true; that ownership can involve material items as well as intangible things such ideas, experiences, and memories. Ownership is fundamentally important in the creation of self-identity, as the ownership of both the tangible and the intangible help to form morals, personality, and character traits that are utilized to form self-identity. Material objects are highly valued in modern society, and the ownership of such objects influences the development of self-identity in the way people reflect on themselves after the acquirement of material things. The ownership of highly coveted items like houses, cars, and electronics influences
People generally turn to memories and personal experiences when determining their view of themselves; they cannot be taken away thus creating the most elementary facets of personality and morals. In my own experience, I use some of my earliest memories to identify myself today. I look to myself as a preschooler, remembering the intense shyness I had around strangers that has faded somewhat but still lingers 12 years later. The possession of unique ideas is also critical in developing self-identity. Through the ownership of political ideals, or views on other people, or even seemingly insignificant opinions toward certain animals, people can begin to see themselves as conservative, cynical, arachnophobic, or any other characterization. Personally, by possessing certain ideas about human rights, the environment, and the economy I identify myself as a liberal, much to the dismay of certain extended family members-- who use their ideas about religion, human rights, and the economy to identify themselves as