Which of the following factors is associated with the rise of materialism?

The rise of materialism is closely linked to a focus on accumulating wealth and material possessions. Materialism revolves around the belief that physical goods and financial success hold significant value and can lead to happiness or fulfillment. This mindset prioritizes tangible gains over spiritual or intangible rewards, often leading individuals to measure their worth or the worth of their lives by their material achievements.

In societal contexts where success is often equated with wealth, the emphasis on material acquisition becomes more pronounced. This aligns with consumer culture, which promotes the idea that well-being and identity are derived from what one owns. Thus, option C accurately captures this connection, identifying the desire to accumulate wealth as a primary driver of materialism.

The other choices represent concepts that contrast with materialism. The acknowledgment of spirituality, for example, suggests a movement away from material concerns towards intangible values, while a desire for traditional practices may emphasize community, ethics, or faith rather than financial success. Similarly, the promotion of social equality often addresses disparities in wealth rather than celebrating material accumulation.