The Theory of the Leisure Class
An Economic Study of Institutions
The Theory of the Leisure Class, published in 1899, is the book in which Thorstein Veblen coined the phrase conspicuous consumption. Writing in the America of the robber barons, he argues that wealth is desired less for comfort than for the esteem it brings, and that the rich demonstrate their standing by wasteful spending and conspicuous leisure, which the classes below them imitate as best they can. From this he explains fashion, the keeping of servants, lawns, sport, the status of women, devout observances, higher learning, and the survival of archaic traits in modern life. The style is dry, roundabout and quietly savage, and the analysis has lost little of its bite. It is available to read online in your browser on Vinteuil, with the first chapter free.
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Frequently asked questions about The Theory of the Leisure Class
The Theory of the Leisure Class by Thorstein Veblen can be read online on Vinteuil, directly in your browser. The first chapter is free for everyone; the complete book is included in Vinteuil Reading ($4.99/month or $39.99/year) or yours forever for $2.99.
Can I read The Theory of the Leisure Class online?
Yes. The Theory of the Leisure Class opens right on this page, in a reader designed for long reading: adjustable text size, light, sepia and dark themes, a clickable table of contents and your place saved when you are signed in. No download or app is needed.
Is The Theory of the Leisure Class free to read on Vinteuil?
The first chapter of The Theory of the Leisure Class is free, without an account. To read the whole book, either buy its online reading for $2.99 (£2.99 in the UK) and keep it forever, or subscribe to Vinteuil Reading for $4.99/month (£4.99/month in the UK) or $39.99/year, with 1 month free for new subscribers. The subscription opens every book in the library and can be cancelled at any time.
Is The Theory of the Leisure Class in the public domain?
Yes. The Theory of the Leisure Class by Thorstein Veblen is a public-domain work. Vinteuil offers a carefully prepared digital edition made for comfortable reading on screen.
How long does it take to read The Theory of the Leisure Class?
About 7 h 05 min of reading, at an average reading pace. Your place is saved automatically when you are signed in, so you can read in several sittings and on several devices.
What kind of book is The Theory of the Leisure Class?
The Theory of the Leisure Class by Thorstein Veblen is filed under "Classics" in the Vinteuil library.
