It was only in the late nineteenth century and then the…
“It was only in the late nineteenth century and then the twentieth century, with the maturation of consumer capitalism, that a shift was made toward the cultivation of unbounded desire. We must appreciate this to realize that late modern consumption, consumption as we now know it, is not fundamentally about materialism or the consumption of physical goods. Affluence and consumer-oriented capitalism have moved us well beyond the undeniable efficiencies and benefits of refrigeration and indoor plumbing.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Modern consumption is driven more by endless desire than by material needs, reflecting cultural shifts in capitalism.
In simple terms: Desire, not goods, fuels modern consumption.
Key Takeaway
Recognize desire’s role in consumption.
Themes
consumerism
desire
modernity
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
sociological
critical
When to use this quote
- marketing strategies
- personal finance
- urban planning
- environmental policy
Key Concepts
capitalism
psychology
cultural shift
Questions to Reflect On
- How does desire shape your purchasing habits?
- Can you find fulfillment beyond material consumption?
A Different Perspective
Desire can lead to overconsumption and ecological harm.