The Idea of Luxury: A Conceptual and Historical Investigation

By Christopher J. Berry

Book Overview

In this far-ranging and innovative study Christopher Berry explores the meanings and ramifications of the idea of luxury. Insights from political theory, philosophy and intellectual history are utilised in a sophisticated conceptual analysis that is complemented by a series of specific historical investigations. Dr Berry suggests that the value attached to luxury is a crucial component in any society's self-understanding, and shows how luxury has changed from being essentially a negative term, threatening social virtue, to a guileless ploy supporting consumption. His analytic focus upon the interplay between the notions of need and desire suggests that luxuries fall into four categories - sustenance, shelter, clothing and leisure - and these are exemplified in sources as diverse as classical philosophy and contemporary advertising.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0521466911
• ISBN13: 9780521466912
• Release Date: June 1994
• Publisher: Cambridge University Press
• Length: 292 Pages
• Weight: 1.04 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.7" x 6.1" x 9.2"