International Journal of Science Annals, Vol. 6, No. 2, 2023 рrint ISSN: 2617-2682; online ISSN: 2707-3637; DOI:10.26697/ijsa LETTERS TO THE EDITOR LETTER TO THE EDITOR How Much Do We Need – What is the Limitation of Wants and Where Do We End Up with Unfulfilled Desires? Bhandari Medani Prasad 1,2 1 Akamai University, USA 2 Gandaki University, Nepal Received: 17.11.2023; Accepted: 18.12.2023; Published: 25.12.2023 Abstract Background and The paper considers the significance of recognizing the limitations of our wants Aim of Study: and the consequences of unfulfilled desires. It should be emphasized that an unchecked pursuit of endless wants leads to unhappiness, unhealthiness, and selfishness, ultimately contributing to social disorder. In a society driven by consumerism and materialism, individuals often find themselves trapped in an endless cycle of desires and wants. However, understanding the limitations of these wants is crucial for personal well-being and social harmony. When our desires become insatiable and unattainable, we experience a constant sense of dissatisfaction and unhappiness. The relentless pursuit of material possessions and external validation results in a shallow and unfulfilled existence. The relentless pursuit of personal desires often leads to neglecting our physical and mental well-being. Unhealthy habits and lifestyle choices emerge as we prioritize immediate gratification over long-term health and happiness. The selfish nature of unfulfilled desires manifests as individuals prioritize their own needs and wants above the well-being of others. This self-centeredness erodes empathy, cooperation, and social cohesion, ultimately contributing to social disorder and unrest. Recognizing the limitations of our wants and cultivating contentment and gratitude is vital for personal fulfillment and social harmony. By embracing a mindset of sufficiency and focusing on meaningful connections and experiences, individuals can break free from the cycle of unfulfilled desires. This shift in perspective promotes personal happiness, healthier lifestyles, and the cultivation of a more compassionate and inclusive society. Conclusions: Understanding the limitations of our wants and recognizing the consequences of unfulfilled desires is crucial for personal and societal well-being. By striving for contentment, practicing gratitude, and prioritizing genuine connections over material possessions, we can foster a more balanced and harmonious society, free from the unhappiness, unhealthiness, and selfishness that arise from unchecked desires. Keywords: limitation of wants, unfulfilled desires, social harmony, insatiable, unattainable, unhealthy habits, immediate gratification Copyright: © 2023 Bhandari M. P. Published by Archives of International Journal of Science Annals DOI and UDC DOI https://doi.org/10.26697/ijsa.2023.2.6 UDC 159.99:178.2 Conflict of interests: The author declares that there is no conflict of interests Peer review: Double-blind review Source of support: This research did not receive any outside funding or support Information about Bhandari Medani Prasad – https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2213-2349; the author: medani.bhandari@gmail.com; Doctor of Philosophy in Sociology, Professor, Senior Vice President, Akamai University, Hawaii, USA; Advisor, Gandaki University, Pokhara, Nepal. 50 International Journal of Science Annals, Vol. 6, No. 2, 2023 рrint ISSN: 2617-2682; online ISSN: 2707-3637; DOI:10.26697/ijsa Dear Editor, Our wants and desires are unlimited, non-archival, and is no limit to human wants, while others argue that there have no boundaries. Understanding wants and unlimited are certain basic needs that all humans have and that these desires is a complex one that has been explored by needs can be satisfied (Desmarais-Tremblay, 2017). philosophers and economists for centuries. At its core, I When our wants are unfulfilled, we can experience argue that human wants are unlimited, while the several negative emotions, such as frustration, anger, and resources available to satisfy those wants are limited. anxiety. We may also become materialistic, constantly This creates a fundamental tension in human society, as striving to acquire more and more possessions in an we are constantly striving to satisfy our desires, but we attempt to satisfy our desires. In some cases, unfulfilled are never able to do so completely. wants can lead to destructive behavior, such as addiction Unlimited desires revolve around the nature of human or crime. desires and the implications they have on our lives. It There are several different ways to deal with unfulfilled raises questions about the extent of our needs, the wants. Some people try to suppress their desires, while limitations of our wants, and the consequences of others try to find ways to satisfy them healthily. Some unfulfilled desires. Human wants are inherent aspects of people also find that it is helpful to focus on the things our nature, encompassing various material, emotional, that they do have, rather than the things that they do not and social desires. These wants arise from our innate have. needs for survival, comfort, security, and fulfillment. Our wants are shaped by our culture, our upbringing, and However, the challenge arises when our wants extend our individual experiences. beyond what is necessary for our well-being and become Our wants are influenced by various factors such as insatiable or limitless. culture, upbringing, and personal experiences. These While it is important to acknowledge and address our influences shape our desires and play a significant role in genuine needs, unlimited desires refer to the relentless determining what we perceive as necessary or valuable. pursuit of wants without considering their practicality, However, it is crucial to recognize that we have the power sustainability, or impact on ourselves and others. In my to shape and control our wants, rather than being solely opinion, one often exceeds what is reasonable or driven by external forces. necessary for a fulfilling life. Curbing our wants can be a transformative practice that Understanding the limitations of our wants is a critical allows us to find inner peace and contribute to fostering aspect of personal growth and contentment. It involves peace in our interactions with others. By consciously recognizing the difference between needs and wants, examining our desires and questioning their true evaluating the true value and significance of our desires, significance, we can separate genuine needs from and discerning the long-term consequences of pursuing superficial wants. This introspective process helps us them without moderation. Unfulfilled desires can lead to develop a sense of discernment and prioritize what truly a perpetual sense of dissatisfaction and restlessness. aligns with our values and well-being. When we constantly chase after wants that are beyond By cultivating contentment and embracing a mindset of our reach or inherently unattainable, we may find sufficiency, we can find peace within ourselves. This ourselves caught in a cycle of striving, discontent, and involves appreciating the present moment, expressing disappointment. This can negatively impact our overall gratitude for what we have, and recognizing that well-being, relationships, and sense of fulfillment. fulfillment does not solely rely on external acquisitions. To remain happy, it is important to accept limitations. It is about finding joy in the simple pleasures of life and Recognizing and accepting the limitations of our wants nurturing meaningful connections with others. When we can bring a sense of clarity and freedom. It allows us to can curb our wants and find peace within ourselves, we prioritize our genuine needs, focus on meaningful are better equipped to help others and contribute to experiences and relationships, and cultivate contentment fostering peace in our communities. By shifting our focus within ourselves. By developing a mindful approach to from individualistic pursuits to collective well-being, we desires and embracing a sense of sufficiency, we can find can extend compassion, empathy, and support to those a balance between pursuing our aspirations and around us. Through acts of kindness, understanding, and appreciating the present moment. Understanding the root cooperation, we contribute to creating a harmonious and of wants and desires prompts us to reflect on our peaceful environment for everyone (Bhandari, 2023b). motivations, priorities, and the potential consequences of Curbing our wants is a transformative process that our actions. By cultivating self-awareness, practicing involves questioning and shaping our desires in moderation, and embracing gratitude, we can navigate alignment with our values. By finding inner peace and the complexities of desires and lead a more fulfilling and contentment, we can extend that energy to others, balanced life. fostering peace in our interactions and relationships. Defining wants. There are several different ways to Through conscious choices, gratitude, and acts of define wants and desires. Some scholars define wants as compassion, we can contribute to a more peaceful world those things that we need to survive, while others define (Bhandari, 2023a): them as those things that we simply want, but do not need - Our wants can be both positive and negative. They can (Dierksmeier, 2014). Still, others define wants as a motivate us to achieve great things, but they can also lead combination of both needs and desires. The limitation of us to make poor decisions. wants is a matter of debate. Some of us argue that there 51 International Journal of Science Annals, Vol. 6, No. 2, 2023 рrint ISSN: 2617-2682; online ISSN: 2707-3637; DOI:10.26697/ijsa - It is important to be aware of our wants and to manage By recognizing the hedonic treadmill, individuals can them healthily. become more mindful of their desires and aspirations. - We should not let our wants control us. We should They can strive to find happiness in experiences, instead focus on living a life that is meaningful and relationships, personal development, and meaningful fulfilling. connections rather than relying solely on external factors Desires, wants and dissatisfaction are very complex that may provide temporary satisfaction. processes. Desires want, and dissatisfaction is a complex The Hedonic treadmill encourages individuals to seek a process influenced by various psychological, social, and more balanced and sustainable approach to happiness, cultural factors. Understanding this complexity requires one that acknowledges the transience of external desires delving into several key aspects: and focuses on cultivating inner contentment and well- 1. Formation of desires: Desires can emerge from a being. variety of sources, including innate biological needs, 4. Social comparison: Social comparison plays a social conditioning, personal experiences, and cultural significant role in the psychology of desires, which can influences. Our desires are shaped by the values, beliefs, lead to negative emotions such as envy, jealousy, and and expectations ingrained in us through upbringing and discontentment. We often evaluate our desires and societal norms. satisfaction based on how we perceive others' 2. Subjectivity of wants: Wants are subjective and vary possessions, achievements, or lifestyles. This from person to person. What one individual desires may comparison can lead to feelings of dissatisfaction if we differ from another based on their unique perspectives, believe our desires are not met in comparison to others. personalities, and life experiences. This subjectivity adds When we compare ourselves to others, particularly in to the complexity of understanding desires and their terms of possessions, achievements, or social status, we fulfillment. often overlook or devalue what we already have. This 3. Hedonic treadmill: The phenomenon known as the tendency to focus on what we lack rather than “hedonic treadmill” (Brickman & Campbell, 1971) appreciating our circumstances can generate feelings of suggests that humans tend to adapt quickly to new inadequacy and fuel an unending cycle of desires and circumstances and experiences. As a result, even when dissatisfaction. desires are fulfilled, the initial happiness and satisfaction Finding peace and contentment requires a shift in mindset may fade, leading to new desires and an ongoing cycle of and a conscious effort to let go of the habit of seeking more to maintain a sense of fulfillment comparison. It involves cultivating a sense of gratitude (Rosenbloom, 2010, August 7). for what we have and embracing the idea that our worth The hedonic treadmill, also known as hedonic adaptation, and happiness are not defined by external markers or is a psychological phenomenon that refers to the comparisons with others. tendency of individuals to return to a relatively stable Understanding our motives and choices is crucial in level of happiness or well-being after experiencing determining how much we truly need and setting positive or negative life events. It suggests that despite limitations on our wants. By reflecting on our values, changes in circumstances or material possessions, priorities, and genuine needs, we can develop a clearer people's happiness levels tend to revert to a baseline or understanding of what brings true fulfillment to our lives. set point. It is important to distinguish between genuine needs and According to the hedonic treadmill theory, individuals desires fueled by external influences or societal initially experience a boost in happiness when they pressures. achieve or acquire something they desire, such as a Choosing to be happy and satisfied with what we have, promotion, a new possession, or a positive life event. while also striving for personal growth and improvement, However, over time, this initial increase in happiness can lead to a more peaceful and contented life. We diminishes, and individuals adapt to their new focusing on our progress and setting goals that align with circumstances. As a result, they require even more our values, we can free ourselves from the constant cycle positive events or acquisitions to maintain the same level of comparison and find fulfillment in our unique journey. of happiness. Finding peace and contentment requires a shift in The concept of the hedonic treadmill is rooted in the idea mindset, letting go of comparison, embracing gratitude, that humans have a remarkable capacity to adjust to and focusing on our personal growth and happiness changing circumstances, both positive and negative, and without being overly influenced by external standards. return to their baseline level of happiness. This It is a continuous process that requires self-reflection, adaptation can occur relatively quickly, which may self-acceptance, and an appreciation for the present explain why the initial excitement or satisfaction derived moment. from achieving a desire tends to fade over time. 5. Impact of advertising and consumer culture: The hedonic treadmill has implications for our Advertising and consumer culture heavily influence our understanding of happiness and well-being. It suggests desires by promoting certain products, lifestyles, and that the pursuit of material possessions or external ideals. These external influences shape our perceptions achievements alone may not lead to long-term happiness. of what is desirable and can contribute to a perpetual Instead, it highlights the importance of focusing on sense of dissatisfaction as we constantly strive to attain internal factors, personal growth and cultivating a the advertised standards of happiness and success. positive mindset to sustain well-being. 52 International Journal of Science Annals, Vol. 6, No. 2, 2023 рrint ISSN: 2617-2682; online ISSN: 2707-3637; DOI:10.26697/ijsa 6. Psychological needs: Our desires are often connected also working towards personal growth and improvement. to deeper psychological needs, such as the need for It is a journey of self-discovery and self-acceptance, belonging, autonomy, competence, and self- where we learn to find peace and fulfillment within actualization. Unfulfilled psychological needs can lead to ourselves rather than constantly comparing ourselves to a sense of dissatisfaction, prompting us to seek others or seeking external validation. By recognizing the fulfillment through various wants and desires. limitations of our wants, embracing gratitude, and 7. Mindfulness and contentment: Developing aligning our desires with our authentic selves, we can mindfulness and cultivating contentment can help navigate the complexities of unfulfilled desires and find navigate the complexity of desires and dissatisfaction. a path that leads to genuine contentment and a sense of Mindfulness practices enable us to observe our desires inner peace. without judgment, understand their transient nature, and develop a sense of contentment by appreciating the Ethical Approval present moment and cultivating gratitude. The study protocol was consistent with the ethical I think desires, wants, and dissatisfaction are a guidelines of the 1975 Declaration of Helsinki as multifaceted process influenced by a range of reflected in a prior approval by the Institution’s Human psychological, social, and cultural factors. Recognizing Research Committee. the complexity of this process allows us to develop a deeper understanding of our desires and work towards Funding Source finding a sense of contentment and fulfillment in our This research did not receive any outside funding or lives. support. Conclusions References The question of how much we need, and the limitations Bhandari, M. P. (2023a). Perspectives on sociological of our wants is a complex and deeply personal one. Our theories, methodological debates and wants, influenced by various factors such as culture, organizational sociology. River Publishers. society, and personal experiences, can shape our desires https://doi.org/10.1201/9781003392880 and aspirations. While wants can serve as motivators for Bhandari, M. P. (2023b). The fundamental principles of personal growth and achievement, they can also lead us social sciences. 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Ultimately, finding contentment lies in the ability to 8consume.html appreciate and be grateful for the present moment, while Cite this article as: Bhandari, M. P. (2023). How much do we need – What is the limitation of wants and where do we end up with unfulfilled desires? International Journal of Science Annals, 6(2), 50–53. https://doi.org/10.26697/ijsa.2023.2.6 The electronic version of this article is complete. It can be found online in the IJSA Archive https://ijsa.culturehealth.org/en/arhiv This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/deed.en). 53