In this far-ranging and innovative study Christopher Berry explores the meanings and ramifications of the idea of luxury. Insights from political theory, philosophy and intellectual history are utilised in a sophisticated conceptual analysis that is complemented by a series of specific historical investigations. Dr. Berry suggests that the value attached to luxury is a crucial component in any society's self-understanding, and shows how luxury has changed from being essentially a negative term, threatening social virtue, to a guileless ploy supporting consumption. His analytic focus upon the interplay between the notions of need and desire suggests that luxuries fall into four categories--sustenance, shelter, clothing and leisure--and these are exemplified in sources as diverse as classical philosophy and contemporary advertising.
Lieferbar
ISBN | 9780521466912 |
---|---|
Sprache | eng |
Cover | Kartonierter Einband (Kt) |
Verlag | Cambridge University Press |
Jahr | 19940819 |
Dieser Artikel hat noch keine Bewertungen.