20th Century Theoretical Research on Western Consumer Society

Author: Mo Shaoqun
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-08-01
Features: In the era of globalization, consumerism knows no bounds. Since the early 20th century, a group of Western sociological theorists have focused on the social and cultural issues triggered by consumerist values, such as "traditional rupture, resource waste, environmental degradation, community disintegration, and loss of subjectivity." They have conducted critiques from various perspectives, proposing concepts such as "conspicuous consumption," "false needs," "consumer alienation," and "symbolic domination." Based on mainstream Western literature on consumer society research, this book provides an in-depth exploration and analysis of the sociocultural background, research themes, and characteristics of the rise of consumer society studies. It distinguishes between the two critical stances held by consumer society research, using this as a starting point to systematically examine the theoretical foundations and discursive resources of consumer society studies. It,“.” This work provides an important entry point for understanding the structure and mechanisms of power in Western society and grasping the living conditions of modern people. It also offers a necessary theoretical platform for examining contemporary Chinese consumer phenomena.