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 material culture cycle in order to grasp the evolution that marks some of the main moments of transformation of object and commodities into social life. Through this hermeneutical model, it will be observed the consumer behaviors to identify the logics that are the basis of 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. A particular attention will be given to understanding the importance that consumer goods play in contemporaneity as instruments for the recognition and the creation of semantic relationships and collective identities. 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 the goods and the networks of relationships within which they are embedded.
Provide the tools to identify new and emerging consumer practices, also in light of the impact of the digitalization process.
Understanding the importance of consumption in everyday life and its role in the development of collective identities.
Investigate and analyze 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

Secondulfo, D. (2012), Sociologia del consumo e della cultura materiale. FrancoAngeli: Milano.
Setiffi, F. (2013), Il consumo come spazio di riconoscimento sociale. FrancoAngeli: Milano.
Paltrinieri, R. (2012), Felicità responsabile. Il consumo oltre la società dei consumi, FrancoAngeli: Milano.

Supplementary reading:
Bonazzi, M. (2014), La digitalizzazione della vita quotidiana, FrancoAngeli: Milano.

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

Conventional.
Academic approach aimed at students participation.

Italian

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

written

This subject deals with topics related to the macro-area "Circular economy, innovation, work" and contributes to the achievement of one or more goals of U. N. Agenda for Sustainable Development