Is there such a thing as greed?

[TheEnigma]

So what is considered greedy? Wikipedia says "Greed is a selfish and excessive desire for more of something, especially wealth or possessions, than is needed or deserved." But almost anyone can always use a more money, more comforts, more power etc. So isn't greed subjective? At what point is an individual just surviving and at what point is someone just being greedy? Who defines it?

[Snader]

2 hours ago, TheEnigma said:

But almost anyone can always use a more money, more comforts, more power etc.

When you become conscious of the fact that you don't really need more of those things and start consciously controlling your action around your desires, your greediness starts to reduce. So we might say greediness = unconsciousness.

After all it's just a label. In a way we will always be greedy as human beings, as long as we are alive. Where you draw the line is subjective, and is determined by your perspective, values, culture, personality and other stuff that make you who you are.

[Salvijus]

Greed is when you're attached to the thing you're grasping on. Afraid to give it away because you believe your happyness, success, or survival depends on it. 

True living is about not being attached to anything. Willingness to give everything away if need be. Yet being grateful for all the things that sustain you every moment. 

Edited Friday at 08:50 AM by Salvijus

[UnbornTao]

It might be the emotional state or disposition that arises when, after having sufficiently met your needs and wants, you cling unnecessarily to the pursuit of more for its own sake, hoping it will fulfill something it cannot--such as emotional needs, a longing for meaning, intimacy, or recognition--thus keeping you constrained within and as, yourself.

But what is so-called greed? What is the experience of it? What about the functional pursuit of money, for example, might eventually transform into greed? What turns its pursuit into a toxic relationship?

Edited 2 hours ago by UnbornTao

[Basman]

Taking more than you reasonably need, usually at the expense of someone else. Like if there is a pizza party, you sneak extra slices on your plate so there's less for the rest. Its not about hunger at that point but simply wanting more, I.E. greed. Greed is defined by excess, when you want more than you need.

[FourCrossedWands]

Greed is completely relative.

You can be greedy and generous at the same.

This is a great example: If you want the best for your children, but it's at the expense of someone else, you are greedy and generous at the same time.

Your children will have a happy, luxurious live, while some other children will starve do death.

I recommend watching this movie: The Zone of Interest.

[Yimpa]

It’s like the Pot of Greed in Yu-Gi-Oh. Draw 2 cards. No drawback and easily exploitable. That’s why it is banned.

[Nilsi]

 

[TheEnigma]

Okay then why does all religion teach that greed is not a good thing then?

[UnbornTao]

1 hour ago, TheEnigma said:

Okay then why does all religion teach that greed is not a good thing then?

Matthew 6:19-21

“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”

Good question and a better one to ask oneself: What is greed?