The Theory of the Leisure Class
Assigned by 1 of the 9 reading lists, catalogue entry only
- Written
- 1899
- Form
- Economics
- Language
- English
- Length
- Medium · 300 pp120 to 300 pages
- Difficulty
- Demanding3 of 5 for a first-year reader
We recommendThe Theory of the Leisure ClassOxford World's Classics, 2009Martha Banta's edition, with notes that identify Veblen's targets and an introduction on his style.
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An analysis of the rich as an anthropologist might study a tribe. Veblen argues that the leisure class arose when predatory exploit became more honourable than productive work, and that its members prove their standing by conspicuous leisure and conspicuous consumption, wasting time and goods in ways that visibly cost money. He applies the idea to dress, manners, sport, religion, higher learning and the position of women, whose idleness and finery display their husbands' wealth. The deadpan style is part of the argument.
No reading guide yet
The catalogue entry above is complete: the dates, the form, the themes and every program that assigns The Theory of the Leisure Class are verified against each program's published list.
What is missing is the part that takes real work: the summary, the key passages, and a recommended translation. The edition named below is the one most programs assign, so the buy links are useful already.
