The Theory of the Leisure Class – Thorstein Veblen

"Conspicuous consumption of valuable goods is a means of reputability to the gentleman of leisure."

Thorstein Veblen applies a Darwinian analysis to the modern economy, introducing the concept of 'conspicuous consumption'. He argues that the wealthy use wasteful spending and leisure not to satisfy needs, but to signal their social status and superiority over the working classes.

Veblen's satire is a classic of sociology and economics. Its biting critique of consumer culture and social climbing remains devastatingly relevant in the age of luxury brands and influencers. It forces us to question the true motivation behind our economic choices.