Self-Reliance, Simple Living, and Happiness in the Man Who Quit Money

Abstract

For some, self-reliance, happiness and simple living form the basis of their living. For others, helping the less fortunate and vulnerable people within their communities and selflessness are the foundation of their lives. Different theories have been proposed in literature to explain the two concepts of living. The simplistic voluntary lifestyle (VSL) is an oppositional strategy of living, which discards excessive consumption and materialistic culture characterizing consumer lifestyles. VSL involves the transition from the consumption-driven lifestyle to intrinsically satisfying pursuits. his kind of life is contrary to the capitalist culture, characterized by overconsumption and environmental degradation. Emerson's theory of self-reliance and voluntary simple living theories encourage individuals to practice a sense of independence. In the novel, 'The Man Who Quit Money,' the character Suelo shuns the capitalist way of life and living happily without the material things that make people happy. Capitalism leads to increased consumption and environmental degradation. On a personal level, it causes social divisions and competitiveness. It also causes people to forget about their spiritual responsibility to take care of each other.