Theory of the Leisure Class (Essential Economics Series: Celebrated Economists)

Introduction

The Theory of the Leisure Class was first published in 1899. Its author, Thorstein Veblen, was the son of Norwegian American immigrants. He grew up to become a prominent economist and sociologist, producing many books and articles, and is often remembered for his use of evolutionary theory to develop a 20th-century theory of economics.

Content and Significance

This particular work is an economic treatise and detailed social critique of conspicuous consumption as a function of social-class consumerism. It claims that the division of labour of the feudal period has continued into the modern era.

Recommendation

This is a must read for anyone with an interest in the influential ideas of this renowned thinker. We are republishing this work with a brand new introductory biography.