George Monbiot in the Guardian Weekly (December 20th) talked about materialism, “a trait that can afflict both rich and poor, which researchers define as “a value system that is preoccupied with possessions and the social image they project, and which is both socially destructive and self-destructive. It destroys the happiness and peace of mind of those who succumb to it, and it is associated with anxiety, depression and broken relationships.

He goes on to say that there is a correlation between materialism, lack of empathy and engagement with others, and unhappiness. As people become more materialistic their well-being diminishes, they become more selfish and competitive, and are less inclined to feel any responsibility to their fellow citizens. This is a general social affliction engineered by government policy, corporate strategy, the collapse of communities and civic life and our acquiescence in becoming simply “consumers”. The latest, most elaborate and expensive electronic game or I- phone does not bring happiness, except for five minutes.

Epicurus welcomed all comers – males, females, young, old rich and poor, slave and free – into his garden. He sought thereby both friendship, mental stimulus and a better understanding to the world and the universe. I don’t know whether he had a sense of humour, but he wouldn’t have had the big following he had without one. A laugh, a joke, modest but good food, a moderate amount to drink. and food for the brain. What more do we need – certainly not Gucci and flash motor cars.