This lucid introduction to the sociology of consumerism examines the relationship between production and consumption in late capitalist societies. The historical and theoretical discussion provides the student with the tools to examine key themes in the sociology of consumption.

After a detailed historical overview of the advent of consumer society, Peter Corrigan examines theoretical accounts of consumption and consumer practice, including: Veblen and conspicuous consumption; Mary Douglas on the world of goods; Jean Baudrillard on the system of objects; and Pierre Bourdieu on cultural capital.

This historical and theoretical discussion provides the student with the tools to examine key themes in the sociology of consumption.

Introduction
Advents of the Consuming Society
Theoretical Approaches to Consumption
Objects, Commodities and Non-Commodities
Shops and Shopping
The Department Store
Advertising
Women¿s Magazines
The Home
Food and Drink
Tourism
The Body
Clothing and Fashion
Conclusion

Peter Corrigan lectures in the Department of Sociology at the University of New England, Australia