I'd wager entertainment and advertising plays a large part in it as well. Educated people see the folly in shows like the Kardashians, daytime soap operas and ads showing material wealth as virtuous and something to aspire to. Less critical thinkers lap that stuff up and misinterpret the source of happiness and contentment. TV shows can create toxic expectations that can't be practically met by everyone, and for many people these shows have replaced community culture and personal belief systems.
The culture of material expectation could help explain the difference between Canada and the US when it comes to relationship stability and partner selection. Obviously better social welfare in Canada/West Europe is a massive driver, but it would still need to be paired with a culture where the stigma of poverty isn't as great and material wealth isn't as coveted.
The culture of material expectation could help explain the difference between Canada and the US when it comes to relationship stability and partner selection. Obviously better social welfare in Canada/West Europe is a massive driver, but it would still need to be paired with a culture where the stigma of poverty isn't as great and material wealth isn't as coveted.