| Description |
[viii] 224 pages ; 24 cm |
| Contents |
Pt. I. The Reconstruction of Social Theory. 1. The Legacy of Classical Sociological Theory. 2. New Rules of Sociological Method: Positivism, Interpretive Sociology, and Structuration Theory. 3. Structuration Theory: Reconceptualizing Agency and Structure -- Pt. II. Social Change and Modernity. 4. The State, Capitalism, and Social Change. 5. The Culture of Modernity: From the Critique of Postmodernism to the Rise of the New Social Movements. 6. The Problems and Possibilities of a Democratic Public Life in Late Modern Societies. 7. Feminism, Sexuality, and Self-Identity |
| Summary |
"Consumption has dominated research and debate in sociology and cultural studies in the last ten years. Until now, books on consumption have tended to focus on abstract theoretical aspects in a way which students have found hard to relate to their everyday lives. In order to redress the balance, this book addresses the situated, experiential aspects of consumerism as a way of life. It argues that while consumerism has been significant for centuries, it is only more recently and particularly in the aftermath of the Second World War that it has shaped lifestyle and culture. Consumerism: As a Way of Life provides an introduction to the historical and theoretical foundations of consumerism. It then moves on to examine the experience of consumption in the areas of space and place, technology, fashion, ̀popular' music and sport. Throughout the author brings a critical perspective to bear upon the subject which culminates in a discussion of the ideological implications of consumerism. Miles has produced a student-friendly book. Headings deploying key questions are used throughout and each chapter ends with recommended key readings. This result is a reliable and stimulating guide to a complex and many-sided field. Miles writes with understanding and critical insight. The range of material covered is nicely calculated for undergraduate needs, but the book also operates with a perspective that raises questions which will be of interest to researchers. It is the ideal modular text for courses on the sociology and culture of consumption". -- Publisher Description |
| Notes |
Includes index |
| Bibliography |
Includes bibliographical references and index |
| Subject |
Giddens, Anthony.
|
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Consumption (Economics) -- History.
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Social change.
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Social sciences -- Philosophy.
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Sociology -- Methodology.
|
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Sociology -- Philosophy.
|
| Author |
Glaister, Ann.
|
| LC no. |
98060536 |
| ISBN |
0761952144 |
|
0761952152 |
|
0803975503 (cased) |
|
0803975511 (paperback) |
|
