I am restarting this blog. Originally, it was for a project of mine where I read a book every day for the month of December 2009. It will continue to follow a similar format, but I will not be reading a book every day, and my posts could be about any book I have read, whether recently or a long time ago. I may even write occasional pieces that are more generally about reading, instead of focusing on specific books. Enjoy.
December 30, 2009 Book of the Day: The Theory of the Leisure Class , by Thorstein Veblen Grade: A- First published: 1899 1-word review: Conspicuous 7-word review: It's all pecuniary conspicuity, you materialistic bastard. This is an interesting, sometimes funny, frequently profound, take on our consumer culture. There's a certain desire to achieve material success just to show others that we have achieved material success. Furthermore, our motivation comes from seeing the success of others. These factors lead to what Veblen calls "conspicuous consumption." We like other people to notice our stuff. Then there are those who try to try to wow you with their stuff when their stuff isn't all that impressive. Veblen refers to these people as "Boise State fans." Just a little love tap.
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