SOCIOLOGY OF CONSUMPTION

This course aims to provide a metaphorical "toolbox" for understanding the social and symbolic meaning enclosed in the universe of consumption. The starting point and theoretical basis for this reflection path will be the analysis of the lines of study that have proposed a reflection on consumption and the consumer society in order to grasp the evolution that marks some of the main moments of transformation of object and the material culture into social life. The aim is to provide an interdisciplinary and interpretative point of view by linking the sociological perspective with history, anthropology, psychology, semiotics and the line of research connected to the consumer behaviour. Through this hermeneutical model, it will be observed the consumer behaviours in order to identify the logics underlying certain choices, also in the light of emerging consumer practices, among which we can include the emergence of the "second hand market", the increasing attention to critical and responsible consumption and the prosumerism, seen as the emblem of the digital revolution we are witnessing in our daily lives. Finally, it will be given the opportunity to work in groups in order to combine the theoretical system with empirical research.

Identify the social factors related to consumer choice processes.
Examine in depth the correlation between production and consumption, with particular attention to prosumerism practices.
Provide the tools to identify new and emerging medial consumer practices, also in the light of the digitalization process impact.
Understanding the importance of consumption in everyday life and the importance of advertising as a cultural form.
Investigate and analyse forms and practices of responsible consumption as possible alternatives to the goods obsolescence.

In the introduction to the course, which will take place on the first day of lesson, some basic sociological concepts will be illustrated. This conceptual map aims to provide the tools for an easier understanding of the sociology framework that will characterize the course.

-Analysis of the structures of consumption and social communication
-Study of the social relations and the social meaning of goods
-Reflection on the emerging and contemporary practices of consumption with particular attention to responsible consumption
-Identification of the impact of the digital age on consumption patterns and practices

Degli Esposti, P., Riva, C., Setiffi F. (2020), Sociologia dei consumi, UTET, Novara

Supplementary reading:
HOWARD S. BECKER. (2007), I trucchi del mestiere. Come fare ricerca sociale, ilMulino, Bologna

The exam is written and it will concern with the preparation of the material presented during the lessons and discussion of group work.

Conventional.
Academic approach aimed at students participation.

Italian

Additional references: a compendium with selected articles and books will be provided during the course.

written