The Value of Consumption

Paper Summary:

This study makes a case for the inclusion of one additional category to Larson. This category is labeled the value of consumption. This paper explains the cultural myth that the good life can be achieved through commodity purchase. In other words, this myth tricks people into believing that happiness is a function of consumption, and that one's own identity is intrinsically tied to the purchases we make.

From the Paper:

"Larson's Cultural Images and Myths approach to the study of popular culture is certainly important. It is a critical examination of the lies and ideologies that are perpetuated in our culture for a variety of reasons. Among them, Larson considers the myth of rustic wisdom or the image of the omni-present conspiracy. The power of these ideologies is obvious when we consider the importance of rustic figures like Abraham Lincoln or the popularity of television programs such as the X-Files. These categories are certainly applicable for a number of cultural tropes and recurring images. However, it is my contention that Larson's categories should not be truncated too soon. There are other cultural myths that are equally present and powerful in Western society."

More papers on The Value of Consumption:

• Term Paper # 147249 : "The Value of Managerial Accounting"
• Analytical Essay # 141199 : "The Nutritional Value Of Ulva Lactuca"
• Persuasive Essay # 119797 : "The Goodness of Meat"

APA Citation:

MLA Citation: