This book is arguably the definitive guide to understanding consumerism as a way of life in the twenty-first century. In his dazzlingly original and accessible introduction to the field, Mark Davis takes the reader on a tour of major theories of consumerism to show how they each offer enlightenment in our dark times of social, economic, and environmental crises.

Introduction: Why Consumerism, Why Now? 1. Conspicuous Consumption 2. Consumerism and 'The Culture Industry' 3. Consumerism in the 'One-Dimensional' Society 4. Cathedrals of Consumption 5. Consumerism and Social Exclusion 6. Consumerism, Social Class and Taste 7. Consumerism and Simulation 8. Consuming Credit 9. Consumerism and Advertising 10. 'Ethical Consumerism'. Conclusion: Rethinking Consumerism