"Henry David Thoreau believed that in order to live well, we must reduce the number of material goods we have. Otherwise, these things begin to dominate us."
Material goods are tools. Tools that help us function, create and discover. Material objects are shaped and utilized to bring beneficial and enjoyable changes to our lives. I do not think that it is necessary to diminish the quantity of goods you have to avoid their domination and control over your life. I think that if you keep in mind that these goods are not goals or idols but that they are instruments, that you can keep them it your life without them presenting a threat.
The only danger that lies with material goods it the tendency for people to start valuing them above the more important aspects of life. If you have self-control and a vision of what matters, then the amount of material goods you posses shouldn't matter. If you lack those characteristics though, then, perhaps, you should limit your artificial gain.
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