History of Ideas - Consumerism

What was the primary condition of the majority of people before the 18th century?

• They owned a lot of luxury items

• They owned more than necessary for survival

• They owned little to nothing

• They were wealthy merchants

In which region did the first consumer revolution primarily occur?

• Southern Europe

• Northwestern Europe

• North America

• Asia

What was the reaction of the Christian church to the consumer revolution?

• They fully supported it

• They remained indifferent

• They condemned materialism and called it vanity, a sin

• They encouraged shopping

What did Bernard Mandeville argue about shopping for pleasure?

• It was detrimental to society

• It was essential for national prosperity

• It should be avoided at all costs

• It had no impact on wealth creation

What did Jean-Jacques Rousseau advocated for in response to consumerism?

• More luxury goods

• Increased advertising

• Expansion of consumer markets

• A return to a simpler way of life

What artistic approach did Claes Oldenburg take in his work?

• Reproducing small consumer items at larger scale

• Creating traditional sculptures

• Depicting historical figures

• Focusing on abstract art

According to the video, what did Adam Smith believe about consumption?

• It was always associated with vanity

• It could have a positive impact on society

• It should be limited to necessities

• It was irrelevant to economic growth

What is the ultimate goal of capitalism according to Adam Smith?

• Accumulating wealth

• Fulfilling higher human needs

• Increasing luxury items

• Promoting unhealthy consumer habits