Thingswealth

Thingswealth is a term used in some economic and sociological discussions to describe the stock of tangible, material possessions held by an individual, household, or society. It emphasizes physical goods and real assets—such as real estate, vehicles, machinery, furniture, art, and other durable consumer goods—as a form of wealth distinct from financial assets or human capital. The concept highlights that wealth can be tied to the ownership of physical items with value, utility, and potential resale appeal.

Measurement and dynamics of thingswealth rely on the current market value and expected service life of owned assets, often net of liabilities. Estimates may combine housing equity, vehicle values, equipment, collectibles, and other durable goods, adjusted for depreciation. Thingswealth is influenced by factors like housing markets, credit availability, inflation, technological change, and consumer preferences. It also tends to reflect exposure to maintenance costs and the risk of obsolescence, which can erode net value even when assets remain physically present.

Distribution and policy relevance: as with other forms of wealth, thingswealth distribution can be highly unequal, affecting living standards and intergenerational opportunity. It intersects with housing policy, inheritance, depreciation schedules, and environmental considerations, given the resource use and disposal costs of material possessions. Critiques of the concept point to valuation challenges for non-market assets and the potential volatility of asset prices. Related ideas include tangible capital, durable goods, and conspicuous consumption.