Diderot effect in psychology

 

The Diderot effect is a social psychology phenomenon that occurs when obtaining a new possession leads to a spiral of consumption, ultimately resulting in a change of a person's values and beliefs. The effect is named after the 18th-century French philosopher, Denis Diderot, who first described the phenomenon in an essay titled "Regrets on Parting with My Old Dressing Gown."

According to Diderot, after receiving a new, elegant dressing gown as a gift, he found that it made his other possessions look shabby in comparison. He then proceeded to buy new furniture, wall hangings, and other items to match the perceived elegance of his new dressing gown, which led to a change in his overall lifestyle and values.

In contemporary research, the Diderot effect has been studied in various contexts, including consumer behavior and social comparison. Research has shown that the acquisition of a new possession can lead to a feeling of incompleteness and dissatisfaction, which in turn can drive further consumption in an attempt to fill that void. This can create a cycle of consumption that can be difficult to break.

Critics of the Diderot effect have argued that it is not a universal phenomenon and that its effects may be influenced by individual differences and cultural factors. Additionally, some researchers have suggested that the effect may only occur under certain conditions, such as when the new possession is seen as a symbol of a desired identity or when the individual is experiencing a significant life change.

Overall, the Diderot effect is an intriguing phenomenon that highlights the complex relationships between possessions, identity, and consumption. Further research is needed to fully understand the conditions under which it occurs and how it can be managed to promote more sustainable consumption behavior.

 

Geoffrey W. Sutton, PhD is Emeritus Professor of Psychology. He retired from a clinical practice and was credentialed in clinical neuropsychology and psychopharmacology. His website is  www.suttong.com

 

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