What does the term "pathological materialism" refer to?

The term "pathological materialism" is best understood as an obsession with wealth and success. This concept suggests a condition where an individual's sense of self-worth and identity is overwhelmingly tied to material wealth and possessions, leading to an unhealthy fixation on achieving financial goals and acquiring goods. Such an obsession can manifest in various ways, including a relentless pursuit of status and validation through material means, often at the expense of personal relationships, mental health, and ethical considerations.

In the context of the other choices, interest in social welfare and community service indicates a focus on altruism rather than materialism, while indifference to financial matters and disinterest in material possessions suggest a lack of emphasis on material wealth, which is contrary to the notion of being pathologically materialistic. Therefore, the emphasis on obsession with wealth and success accurately captures the essence of pathological materialism.