The Idea of Luxury: A Conceptual and Historical Investigation (Ideas in Context)
By
Christopher J. Berry (Author)
Paperback
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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 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. Worked examples or Exercises
More Details
- Contributor: Christopher J. Berry
- Imprint: Cambridge University Press
- ISBN13: 9780521466912
- Number of Pages: 292
- Packaged Dimensions: 154x234x18mm
- Packaged Weight: 440
- Format: Paperback
- Publisher: Cambridge University Press
- Release Date: 1994-06-16
- Series: Ideas in Context
- Binding: Paperback / softback
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