| The Idea of Luxury: A Conceptual and Historical Investigation Contributor(s): Berry, Christopher J. (Author) |
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ISBN: 0521466911 ISBN-13: 9780521466912 Publisher: Cambridge University Press OUR PRICE: $28.49 Product Type: Paperback - Other Formats Published: June 1994 Annotation: 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. |
| Additional Information |
| BISAC Categories: - Business & Economics | Economics - Theory - Political Science | History & Theory - General |
| Dewey: 330.16 |
| LCCN: 93032166 |
| Series: Ideas in Context |
| Physical Information: 0.72" H x 6.08" W x 9.22" (0.98 lbs) 292 pages |
| Descriptions, Reviews, Etc. |
| Publisher Description: 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 utilized 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. |