BOOK BRIEF

The World of Goods

Mary Douglas, Baron Isherwood
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The World of Goods

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1996

Book Brief

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Mary Douglas, Baron Isherwood

The World of Goods

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1996
Book Details
Pages

200

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Genre
Social Science

Anthropology

Psychology
Topic
Anthropology

Arts & Culture

Business & Economics
Publication Year

1996

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In The World of Goods, Mary Douglas and Baron Isherwood explore the social and cultural significance of consumption. The authors argue that products serve as communicative tools within society, playing essential roles beyond their functional uses. They highlight how goods influence relationships, expressing values and identity, thereby enriching our understanding of economics and anthropology.

Informative

Contemplative

Challenging

Reviews & Readership

3.9

103 ratings

64%

Loved it

29%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

The World of Goods by Mary Douglas and Baron Isherwood is lauded for its insightful analysis of consumer behavior and the cultural significance of goods. Reviews praise its pioneering approach to material culture. However, some critique its dense theoretical framework as challenging. Overall, it's valued for its interdisciplinary perspective and ability to provoke new thoughts on consumption.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The World of Goods?

Readers interested in The World of Goods by Mary Douglas and Baron Isherwood would likely enjoy exploring cultural anthropology and consumer behavior. Fans of Veblen’s The Theory of the Leisure Class or Bourdieu’s Distinction will appreciate its insights into how consumption shapes social identity.

3.9

103 ratings

64%

Loved it

29%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

200

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Genre
Social Science

Anthropology

Psychology
Topic
Anthropology

Arts & Culture

Business & Economics
Publication Year

1996

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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