noun
The artificial or manipulated perception of scarcity, often used as a tool for economic, social, or psychological control. Fauxcarcity occurs when abundance is intentionally concealed or restricted to maintain power, drive demand, or create a sense of urgency and dependence. It is frequently employed in capitalism, classism, and other hierarchical structures to reinforce inequality and perpetuate the illusion of lack.
Etymology:
A fusion of faux (French for “false” or “artificial”) and scarcity, indicating a contrived or deceptive shortage rather than a genuine lack of resources.
Example Sentence:
The housing crisis isn’t due to a lack of homes; it’s a case of fauxcarcity, where empty properties are deliberately withheld to inflate prices.