The Theory of the Leisure Class: An Economic Study of Institutions

Define and explain what sets apart the leisure class from the industrial class. According to Veblen, how does a society become stratified into a leisure class and an industrial class?

What is “decent” consumption and how does it differ from conspicuous consumption? How does decent consumption impact a person’s economic decisions?

Veblen refers to the American Civil War as a force that promoted a trend toward conservatism in the South. What are Veblen’s views on American slavery and emancipation? How does he relate slavery to the culture of conspicuous consumption?