Steve, I think you are right, I am just worried about that definition.

For whatever reason I have long tried to live a life free of what I saw as needless consumption (perhaps it was a defense - rejecting what was being kept from me to maintain sense of self in a society that looks down on those withought cash to blow). I have always defined this type of consumption as something that provides you with no benefit beyond simply doing it and being seen doing it (wearing a 80 dollar T-Shirt because it says Armani, having a manicured lawn, or driving a Hummer). The definition you attribute (I think rightly) to Veblen goes further and would also include going out for an expensive, but not overpriced, dinner (think blue hill instead of tavern on the green) or wearing well-made cloths that cost a bit more as a result.

I want to maintain a belief that conspicuous consumption is something that one should be aware of and avoid, without giving up some of the individualistic pursuits that, even when done with no one looking, make me a bit happier. Am I being hypocritical and selfish or is the key to the whole thing motivation and prioritization (think the king who burns to death istead of adjusting his seat)?

-- AdamCarlis - 13 Mar 2008