ILRLR 3870 - The History of Consumption: From Wedgwood to Wal-Mart

(crosslisted) AMST 3870, HIST 3870

Spring. 4 credits. Letter grades only.

L. Hyman.

Whether buying at a general store, shopping at a department store, or loitering at a mall, consumption has always formed an important part of the American experience. More than just commodities bought and sold, consumption is also about the institutions, social practices, cultural meanings, and economic functions that have surrounded the merchandise. This course will look at the changing meanings consumption has had for life, politics, and economy in the US over the past 300 years.