Conspicuous Consumption: Flaunting What You’ve Got
Ah, the timeless dance of showing off one’s wealth, reserved for those who can afford both to buy the bling and the subsequent chiropractic care after strutting about decked in finery.
Definition: Displaying one’s material wealth ostentatiously.
Origin: Coined by the American economist Thorstein Veblen in “The Theory of the Leisure Class” (1899), where he criticizes the wealthy for exploiting society and then flaunting their possessions.
Synonyms:
- Ostentatious display
- Grandstanding
- Flashiness
- Showboating
- Bragging
Antonyms:
- Humility
- Moderation
- Simplicity
- Humbleness
Related Expressions:
- Keeping up with the Joneses
- Showing off
- Flaunting wealth
- Living large
- Being flash with the cash
Quotes and Proverbs:
- “Money talks, but wealth whispers.” —Old Saying
- “He who dies with the most toys wins.” —Anonymous (But probably someone with a LOT of toys)
Suggested Reading:
- “The Theory of the Leisure Class” by Thorstein Veblen
- “Wealth of Nations” by Adam Smith
- “Luxury Fever: Why Money Fails to Satisfy in an Era of Excess” by Robert H. Frank
- “Blowout: Corrupted Democracy, Rogue State Russia, and the Richest, Most Destructive Industry on Earth” by Rachel Maddow (a bit tangential, but limiting unnecessary consumption is a theme)
Suggested Movies:
- “The Great Gatsby” (2013) - Directed by Baz Luhrmann
- “Wall Street” (1987) - Directed by Oliver Stone
- “The Wolf of Wall Street” (2013) - Directed by Martin Scorsese
Suggested Songs:
- “Billionaire” by Travie McCoy ft. Bruno Mars
- “Money for Nothing” by Dire Straits
- “Material Girl” by Madonna
🐾 A Touch of Humor:
Imagine hosting a silent auction just to see who doesn’t boast about their paddle number.
Thank you for diving with me into the glitzy yet often-questionable world of conspicuous consumption. While the shimmer of material wealth might dazzle, remember: true value often lies in things that can’t be displayed in a window.
May you find wealth in wisdom, richness in simple joys, and keep your splendor subtly shimmering.
Author: Opulence O’Flaherty
