Intro to PE / consumerism Flashcards
What is consumption according to Trentmann?
Consumption consists of a bundle of goods, practices, and representations.
What does the politics of consumption involve?
The politics of consumption examines the relations between consumers and society, encompassing aspects such as status, family life, generational identities, and fashion trends.
What are the key aspects of consumption?
Consumption involves the movement of goods between societies, distinctions between luxury and necessity, patterns of possessions, and changes in standards of living over time.
Why is consumption historically significant?
Consumption is deeply intertwined with class and status dynamics throughout history, reflecting and reinforcing social distinctions.
What are the key debates on consumerism?
Debates on consumerism revolve around the birth of consumer society, anxieties about consumer choice, and the strengths and weaknesses of green consumerism.
What’s the tension in consumer choice?
Consumer choice is a battleground between the perceived empowerment of individuals and the influence of corporations and market forces.
What role does marketing play in consumer choice?
[link to surveillance capitalism]
Marketing strategies shape consumer preferences and behaviors by tapping into emotions, desires, and aspirations, influencing purchasing decisions.
How does neoliberalism affect consumption?
Neoliberalism promotes individualism and materialism, fostering a culture of consumerism that prioritizes personal choice and consumption as a means of self-expression.
What are the strengths of green consumerism?
Green consumerism attempts to mitigate capitalism’s environmental impacts by encouraging eco-friendly choices and promoting sustainability through initiatives such as eco-labeling and public awareness campaigns.
What are the critiques of green consumerism?
green consumerism remains niche and risks greenwashing, placing undue burden on individual consumers while absolving corporations and governments of responsibility.
What is Veblen’s concept?
conspicuous consumerism highlighting the conspicuous display of wealth and status through consumer goods and services.
What’s Marcuse’s critique?
Marcuse criticizes consumerism for perpetuating toil and frustration, arguing that it hinders critical thinking and promotes conformity.
When was consumerism termed?
in the 1920s in contrast to communism, reflecting the rise of consumer organizations and movements.
Significance of consumerism1970s-80s?
During this period, consumerism was viewed as a source of creativity and central to identity formation, shaping cultural and social norms.
What does Trentmann say about consumption?
Trentmann views consumption as a mirror of the human condition, reflecting societal values, norms, and aspirations.
