Home Consumption: Unveiling the Hidden Stories of Material Culture and Everyday Life

Within the intimate confines of our homes, a wealth of everyday objects surrounds us, each carrying its own story and significance. From the well-worn armchair to the cherished family heirloom, these material possessions are not merely inert things but active participants in our lives, shaping our experiences, memories, and sense of identity.

In "Home Consumption: Material Culture and Everyday Life," a groundbreaking work by cultural anthropologist Susan Strasser, we embark on an immersive journey into the hidden world of material culture, exploring its profound impact on our domestic lives and social practices.

Food Waste: Home Consumption, Material Culture and Everyday Life (Materializing Culture)

by Thomas C. Schelling

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	986 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	138 pages
X-Ray for textbooks	:	Enabled

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Materiality and the Embodiment of Social Life

Strasser argues that material culture is not simply a collection of inanimate objects but a dynamic system that mediates our relationships with others and the world around us. Through meticulous ethnographic research, she demonstrates how objects become imbued with social meanings, reflecting the values, aspirations, and cultural identities of their owners.

She delves into the domestic rituals associated with objects such as the family dinner table, the stereo system, and the television, revealing how these objects facilitate social interactions, foster a sense of belonging, and shape the dynamics of everyday life.

Consumption and the Construction of Identity

Strasser also examines the role of consumption in shaping our identities. She argues that the objects we acquire and surround ourselves with are not merely functional tools but reflections of who we are and who we aspire to be.

Through detailed case studies, she demonstrates how people use material possessions to define their tastes, social status, and personal narrative. From the fashion-conscious teenager to the avid collector, Strasser reveals the complex ways in which consumption shapes our sense of self.

The Home as a Materialized Representation of the Self

Strasser places particular emphasis on the home as a site where material culture and everyday life converge. She argues that the domestic environment is not merely a physical space but a reflection of the inhabitants' values, aspirations, and personal histories.

She analyzes the material arrangements of different homes, from the cluttered bohemian apartment to the minimalist suburban house, revealing the ways in which objects are used to create a sense of place, establish social boundaries, and express individual and collective identities.

"Home Consumption: Material Culture and Everyday Life" offers a profound and nuanced understanding of the intricate relationship between material culture and everyday life. Strasser's meticulous research and insightful analysis provide a fresh perspective on how objects shape our identities, routines, and personal narratives.

This groundbreaking work is essential reading for anyone interested in the social and cultural significance of material possessions, the anthropology of consumption, and the complex interplay between our material surroundings and our lived experiences.

Uncover the hidden stories of your own home and delve into the fascinating world of material culture with "Home Consumption: Material Culture and Everyday Life." Free Download your copy today and immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of everyday objects that define our lives.

Food Waste: Home Consumption, Material Culture and Everyday Life (Materializing Culture)

by Thomas C. Schelling

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	986 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	138 pages
X-Ray for textbooks	:	Enabled

FREE