The concept of minimalism is often associated with simplicity and reduction, where individuals strive to live with less. However, Douglas Coupland offers an intriguing perspective, suggesting that minimalists, in their pursuit of space and simplicity, can be seen as extreme hoarders. Instead of accumulating physical objects, they hoard open space and a clutter-free environment, leading to an unusual paradox where both minimalists and traditional hoarders may share similar quirks in their lifestyles.

This comparison challenges the typical understanding of what it means to hoard, expanding the definition to include those who prioritize voids over objects. Coupland's commentary raises questions about the motivations behind minimalism and whether the desire for a reductive life can sometimes lead to an obsession similarly reflective of actual hoarding behaviors, albeit focused on the absence rather than the presence of items.