You should read up on Edward Bernays. He is the reason people need that new car or the new fashion. If it wasent for him most people would be happy with their old stuff. As for what does matter in life, I would say friends, family, maximizing your usage of time while you are alive to achieve your goals and the personal connections we make with people. That is what is important in life to me. Oh, and good food, good drink and good conversations. xD