Earlier quoted context omitted.
Every single thing you mentioned outside of cc debt (though arguably you should never reach for a credit card outside of using it for the points systems they provide) could be categorized as something used as a tool to make more money.
Vast majority of new car sales will not let the new owner make more money and were financed with debt. If all of those buyers bought used for cash, nobody would be able to afford used cars for cash. It really is only businesses that can convert debt into income, most consumers do not want to. There is nothing I can spend on to get a higher hourly rate.
Having a better house might allow you to invite more people over for parties or dinner, which can have downstream effects in your social mobility and status.
If you can keep up with the Joneses and chit chat about your vacation to some nice place, it may allow you to become an insider in some group.
At least that's the "logic" (even if subconscious) to chasing status symbols. Though very often it fails because faking it is hard and you can easily be clocked as a tasteless tryhard. But if you don't take too large steps up, you might get away with it and reap the social benefits.