Description
Book SynopsisA Theory of Shopping offers a highly original perspective on one of our most basic everyday activities -- shopping. We commonly assume that shopping is primarily concerned with individuals and materialism.
Trade Review"Before reading this book, I did not believe that a theory of shopping was possible. Now I do. Daniel Miller argues that shopping is a ritual practice oriented to others. In doing so, he puts the heart back into his accounts of consumption which too often assume that shopping is an asocial or even anti-social activity. Remarkable."
Nigel Thrift, University of Bristol "His demystification of what appears to be, on the surface, straightforward juggling of cost, quantity and quality is absorbing reading." New Statesman and Society
"Miller's Hegelian assumptions are provocative and testing. In short an exhilarating book." New Formations
"Miller begins with an excellent and sensitive ethnography of shopping firmly rooted among his own native north Londoners. It is a fine example of what an anthropologist can achieve at home." The Times Higher Education Supplement
Table of ContentsIntroduction.
1. Making Love in Supermarkets.
2. Shopping as Sacrifice.
3. Subjects and Objects of Devotion.
Notes.
Bibliography.
Index.
