that's like the least irresponsible purchase. even at a high interest rate, you are still paying on a principle that creates an asset with equity that increases your stable wealth. When you rent, all that money you pay just evaporates and you never see it again. A mortgage payment is almost always the better financial choice, unless you need to move frequently for work.

a house? so irresponsible

Same. Recently bought a house, rates are very high, but I can live with it. I've literally never been happier than I am now, no matter how many weekends I spend completely drained repairing some random thing.