LS 735 - We Are What We Buy: The Culture of Consumption

(3.00 cr.)

Understanding the modern world begins with the recognition of capitalism as its most distinctive facet. Drawing from microeconomics, history, philosophy, marketing, and popular culture, this course focuses specifically on how the powerful and ubiquitous forces of capitalism serve to shape, not just culture, but the individual's sense of self. Desire is conditioned by market forces, and the individual forms his or her identity through material consumption. Students use a variety of reflective techniques to come to a deeper understanding of their place in a culture of consumption.