The Sum of Small Things: A Theory of the Aspirational Class
The 1% go to different doctors, eat at different restaurants, shop at different stores. Wealth used to be a better seat. Now it’s an upgrade to a better life.
Scott Galloway • The Algebra of Wealth: A Simple Formula for Success
With a decrease in discretionary spending and a shift away from non-essential goods, there’s been a redefinition of luxury.
PM • ON NEW MUTUALISM AND MEDIA
According to French sociologist Pierre Bourdieu, poor people are more practical about their tastes, prioritizing accessibility and entertainment, seeking out things for their utility more than for what liking a thing can say about their personality or pursuit of knowledge.
The Great American Cool
We're a long way from post-scarcity, which means conspicuous consumption is still a reliable signal across many parts of the world, and in lower socioeconomic groups within rich countries. But it is weakening relative to other signals, especially among the type of people likely to be reading this book, and this trend will continue. As money becomes
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