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Conspicuous Consumption, Leisure and Globalization

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What is conspicuous consumption? How does conspicuous consumption influence purchasing decisions? Think about a high-priced item that you have bought or would like to buy. To what extent does conspicuous consumption affect your decision?
What is conspicuous leisure? Examples of conspicuous leisure are abundant on television. In what ways are leisure activities informed by social and economic class? Provide an example of a popular leisure activity. What assumptions can you make about the participants of the activity?

Define the term globalization. What effect does globalization have on popular culture? Provide an example of how American popular culture has influenced other countries, or how the United States has imported popular culture from other countries.

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Solution Summary

The solution provides guidance and information on the topics of conspicuous consumption and conspicuous leisure. Examples are provided. Additionally, it also discusses and defines globalization and its effect on culture. An example of how American culture influences other cultures is also provided. References are listed for further exploration of the topic. A word version is attached. 1344 words.

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On Conspicuous Consumption

Conspicuous consumption is the act of purchasing goods and services where the purpose of doing so is to display status and wealth, a kind of purchase that has more social meaning than mere consumption of the product. When people purchase very expensive goods, they feel that they are saying a particular social statement - that they have moved up in life or that they are richer and far more financially well-off than everybody else. The goods become the stamp and symbol of social status. Working men and women toil hard every day to provide for themselves and for their family and their labour is geared to achieve not any their needs but also to help them move up the social ladder to attain economic security. For many in the working class and the middle class, choosing goods and services that are right according to their budget and function better serves their interest so that they can stretch the value of their dollar. But there comes a time when promotions happen or changes in one's economic situation happen - the entrepreneur strikes gold, the lottery winner does it big, the lawyer makes partner. Some celebrate this event with purchasing a 'dream' product like an expensive watch for example (Rolex, Patek Philippe, Breitling - all no cheaper than $5,000), women buy diamond jewellery (Tiffany,Chanel) and designer bags(Louis Vuitton, Hermes), some men buy expensive cars far more expensive and prestigious than the usual saloon (an Audi, Bentley, BMW M-series). When these products are worn, they signify to others that the wearer of the goods or owner of the car has 'made it' for they can afford to buy such items for their use and pleasure. Personally, I'd like to purchase a Longines watch; a specific watch in fact - the Prima Luna. I have desired it since I saw it ...

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