The Theory of the Leisure Class
Thorstein Veblen
Read by LibriVox Volunteers
Originally published by the Norwegian-American economist Thorstein Veblen while he was a professor at the University of Chicago in 1898, the Theory of the Leisure Class is considered one of the great works of economics as well as the first detailed critique of consumerism. In the book, Veblen argues that economic life is driven not by notions of utility, but by social vestiges from pre-historic times. (Summary modified from Wikipedia)
Proof-Listeners: Illiterati, Sarah Jennings, mim@can, Ken Sterry and Barry Eads (11 hr 51 min)
Chapters
Reviews
The classic social critique of class cultures
Chad Lee Bryson
A must read for social theorists and economists alike. Veblen's classic theoretical text identifies the wasteful elements and origins of consumer lifestyles by tracing the unfolding of human societal evolution from predatory to more peaceable societies driven he argues by the instinctive motive of emulation which is the desire for increase and displaying evidences of pecuniary strength (wealth) and standing well in the thoughts of others (reputability)
Great book
Andrew
Overall a great book with many interesting concepts that still apply today, Veblen had insights that helped shape the current economic thought and his theories pave the way for the understanding of consumerism without making many generalizations towards individual consumer choices.
Thanks
GeoffreyEdwards
Thanks for this very interesting group recording. I've asked several of my friends to listen to it. I don't agree with Mr. Veblen's attack on the YMCA and Salvation Army.
A LibriVox Listener
Really appreciate the good work done here. This is a foundational text that is hard to access and well read on this recording. The later chapters are read with less understanding and emphasis than the earlier, which are quite good.
Interesting outlook about society
Michael Cutler
A nice introduction to sociology