In an Editorial in "Times Higher Education" (2009) extensive comment was given on the work of Furedi (2009) on the culture of complaint and the application to higher education of the consumer model. The discussion included many apparently strong criticisms of this use of the consumer model. "Higher Education Review" has itself published articles…

This paper assumes that contemporary Western society is a consumer society and argues that the need of global capitalism to sell its commodities in the market place is the fundamental force behind consumerism. A model of globalisation is discussed. In it, we see how the control of information technology means that producers have the power to…

Examines rent-to-own, an alternative purchasing method that allows the consumer to rent an item and gain ownership after a specified number of payments. Addresses industry trends, the rent-to-own consumer, pricing structure, and legalities. (JOW)

This case study of a used car purchase illuminates the concepts and principles that should guide purchase decisions. It suggests that consumers should be aware there is little correlation between price and quality; competent shopping yields better quality; and consumers must decide their preferred trade-off between price and quality. (SK)

In this paper, we argue against the over-simplistic accusation that the media "dumb down" the study of history. Instead, we critically examine the contemporary presentation of history on British television within a framework of analysis of commodification and consumption. We argue that central to the debate is the idea that whilst…

Explains price and product discrimination, showing how intelligent consumers can achieve increased purchasing power of their income and discusses how consumer educators can explain this discrimination. Evaluates the pros and cons of price/product discrimination from the social viewpoint. (Author/JOW)

Presents a straightforward method for evaluating lease versus borrow (buy) decisions illustrated with actual financing cost data reported to new car purchasers. States that individuals should consider after-tax cash flows associated with alternative arrangements, time in which cash flow occurs, and opportunity cost of capital to identify the least…

The guidelines described here were developed to help novices to microcomputer hardware develop an increased understanding of the different types of microcomputer hardware available. (Author)

Considerations to be taken into account before buying a home computer include one's attitude toward computers, need, cost, and available space. A personal computer can be beneficial as a tutor, entertainer, record-keeper, and aid to the handicapped. Home economists must attempt to understand the implications of home computers for family life. (JOW)

Argues that the major studies supporting the Principle of Relative Constancy in consumption of mass communication products were statistically defective. Presents updated tests of data suggesting that the principle is actually of doubtful predictive value. (MS)

Argues that the Consumer Price Index (CPI) is not the same as the cost of living and that, while the CPI may reflect changes in an "average" family's purchasing power, the expenses and purchases of teachers' families may not be "average." (Author/RW)

Personal income is a key factor affecting not only the amount American families spend for food but also the types of food they buy. This article presents results from an analysis of U.S. Department of Agriculture's 1987-88 Nationwide Food Consumption Survey, the latest data available on household food consumption for the entire population and for…

Examines the prevailing myth that children's well-being increases through consumerism. Addresses the scope of child-focused consumption, negative impact of child-oriented consumerism on child development, creation of an imagination-stifling environment; and the relationship between instant gratification and avoidance of challenges. Concludes that…

According to Gottfried, the growing and increasingly crass commercialization of American higher education is an amply documented phenomenon, and one that receives continuing empirical and anecdotal verification. It is, furthermore, a problem that draws notice from across the political spectrum, from social democrat Russell Jacobi to…

The construct of involvement, used by marketers and consumer behaviorists for many years as a predictive measure of the qualitative relationship between an individual and a stimulus, has long been defined as having affective or cognitive roots. However, definitions that favor one or the other too heavily are less helpful because they are too…