Consumer behavior . W riting papers in psychology . We all must decide daily how to spend our precious time and money. Business researchers study our habits in order to develop effective advertisements that will inform and persuade us to purchase specific products.
Psychologists study our thought processes so as to better predict our decision-making strategies.
Sociologists study the consumption-related behavior of different societal groups to develop the basis for better consumer protection programs. Philosophers and theologians address the moral issues associated with life in a materialistic society. In this course, we examine the ways in which these and other disciplines have approached the problem of consumer behavior. Through reading, discussion, and group assignments, we seek to better understand and communicate what it means to be a consuming individual in a market-oriented society. Class activities will emphasize discussion of the current reading assignment and presentation of group projects.