A Theory of the Aspirational Class

In this interview, Elizabeth Currid-Halkett presents her view on how "the leisure class has been replaced by a new elite, and how their consumer habits affect us all". Currid-Halkett argues that much has changed since Thorstein Veblen’s Theory of the Leisure Class, in which he coined the term “conspicuous consumption,” In particular, Currid-Halkett argues that material goods as status symbols have become less important due to their accessibility. According to her, the new "aspirational" class now consumes in a more subtle way that reveals their status.

Comment from our editors:

I think it is relevant. One may not agree with everything she says, but she presents innovative and interesting research findings.