Consumer Culture and Modernity

Rating:
Summary: comprehensive and objective
Review: Slater thoroughly examines multiple and diverse theories addressing the whys, whens, and hows of consumption. He captures many of the paradoxes of "consumption" and "culture" without passing judgment on consumption. This book will give you an historical view of the role consumption has played in western societies, as well as an examination of some of consumption's current functions (identity formation, status signification, etc.). An excellent overview text for courses addressing consumption, but also a readable and thought-provoking discourse on consumption.

Rating:
Summary: comprehensive and objective
Review: Slater thoroughly examines multiple and diverse theories addressing the whys, whens, and hows of consumption. He captures many of the paradoxes of "consumption" and "culture" without passing judgment on consumption. This book will give you an historical view of the role consumption has played in western societies, as well as an examination of some of consumption's current functions (identity formation, status signification, etc.). An excellent overview text for courses addressing consumption, but also a readable and thought-provoking discourse on consumption.

Rating:
Summary: The indispensible and accessible introduction to this field.
Review: Very readable, provocative; a superb course textbook. Makes the subject come alive.