Do we like it for what it is or what it symbolizes?

A thought:

When we desire x, y, z, do we want it for what it is, or what it symbolizes?

For example:

  1. Do we want that car for what it is, or what it symbolizes? For instance I want the Lamborghini for what it symbolizes: audacity, sexiness, and power. I don’t think I actually want to own the car itself.
  2. Much of fashion and luxury is about the notion of elegance, beauty, and grace. We think that by purchasing these things we become more beautiful, graceful, and worthy.
  3. When we want to buy that new camera, what we really want is to feel more inspired, creative and happy. But will buying that new camera really have that effect?