Consumption is not simply buying - or even using up. How we consume is as important as what we consume. This section uses sociological theory to understand how the culture of consumption differentiates and excludes. Objects that define the self both distinguish us from some and unite us with others. The relevant reading is Lichtenberg s Consuming Because Others Consume , in which she cleverly shows that all consumption is a social act.
Many sociologists believe social class is the most important division in society.
There are two readings assigned for this topic. The Significance of Style describes how the preparation and consumption of food is used to mark class boundaries . Use this chapter to learn why the cost of food is not necessarily the main determinant of why people buy it. Many sociologists believe gender is the most important division in society. In a consumer society life revolves around commodities.