Origins of Consumerism
The roots of consumerism can be traced back to Western Europe before the Industrial Revolution, particularly in Britain in the late 18th century. During this time, the pursuit of opulence and display began to extend beyond the very rich, and the acquisitive instincts were slowly unleashed. (Wikipedia)
Rise of Mass Consumption
The concept of humans as consumers became more commonplace in America in the 1920s. This period marked the beginning of the immense eruption of consumption across the industrialized world. The United States, in particular, saw the rapid extension of existing shops, the surge in mail-order shopping, and the rise of massive multistory department stores. (MIT Press Reader)
Democratization of Desire
Consumer culture in the early 20th century was characterized by the democratization of desire, where individual desire was democratized rather than wealth or political and economic power. Money value became the predominant measure of all value in society. (MIT Press Reader)
Role of Advertising and Propaganda
The emergence of consumerism was accompanied by the rise of advertising and propaganda. Mass production needed to actively create demand for its products through advertising and constant touch with the public. The new economic gospel of consumption encouraged people to give up thrift and value goods over free time. (MIT Press Reader)
Key Facts
- Origins in Western Europe: Consumerism can be traced back to Western Europe before the Industrial Revolution, with its roots in the late 18th century in Britain. During this time, the pursuit of opulence and display began to extend beyond the very rich, and the acquisitive instincts were slowly unleashed.
- Rise of mass consumption: The concept of humans as consumers became more commonplace in America in the 1920s. This period marked the beginning of the immense eruption of consumption across the industrialized world. The United States, in particular, saw the rapid extension of existing shops, the surge in mail-order shopping, and the rise of massive multistory department stores.
- Democratization of desire: Consumer culture in the early 20th century was characterized by the democratization of desire, where individual desire was democratized rather than wealth or political and economic power. Money value became the predominant measure of all value in society.
- Role of advertising and propaganda: The emergence of consumerism was accompanied by the rise of advertising and propaganda. Mass production needed to actively create demand for its products through advertising and constant touch with the public. The new economic gospel of consumption encouraged people to give up thrift and value goods over free time.
Sources
- Wikipedia: Consumerism
- MIT Press Reader: A Brief History of Consumer Culture
- The Atlantic: How Humans Became Consumers
FAQs
How did consumerism start?
Consumerism can be traced back to Western Europe before the Industrial Revolution, with its roots in the late 18th century in Britain. During this time, the pursuit of opulence and display began to extend beyond the very rich, and the acquisitive instincts were slowly unleashed.
When did consumerism become widespread?
The concept of humans as consumers became more commonplace in America in the 1920s. This period marked the beginning of the immense eruption of consumption across the industrialized world.
What factors contributed to the rise of consumerism?
The rise of mass production, the democratization of desire, and the role of advertising and propaganda all contributed to the emergence of consumerism.
How has consumerism changed over time?
Consumer culture in the early 20th century was characterized by the democratization of desire, where individual desire was democratized rather than wealth or political and economic power. Today, consumerism is often seen as our principal role in the world, and people are constantly bombarded with advertising and marketing messages that encourage them to buy more and more.
What are the negative effects of consumerism?
Consumerism can lead to a number of negative consequences, including environmental degradation, social inequality, and personal debt.
What are the alternatives to consumerism?
There are a number of alternatives to consumerism, such as minimalism, sustainability, and community-based economics.
How can I reduce my own consumption?
There are a number of ways to reduce your own consumption, such as buying less stuff, buying used items, and supporting local businesses.
What is the future of consumerism?
The future of consumerism is uncertain. Some experts believe that we are reaching a peak of consumption, while others believe that consumerism will continue to grow. However, it is clear that consumerism cannot continue indefinitely on a finite planet.