1. A philosophical position that physical matter is the fundamental substance of reality and that all phenomena, including mental states and consciousness, are ultimately dependent on material processes.
The philosopher argued for materialism as the basis of all existence.
O filósofo argumentou pelo materialismo como base de toda existência.
2. An excessive concern with material possessions and physical comfort rather than spiritual or intellectual values; consumerism.
The increasing materialism in society concerns many cultural critics.
O materialismo crescente na sociedade preocupa muitos críticos culturais.
3. Historical materialism: Marx's theory that material economic conditions are the driving force of social change and historical development.
Marx's historical materialism shaped twentieth-century political thought.
O materialismo histórico de Marx moldou o pensamento político do século XX.