This book examines the processes that have transformed underdeveloped countries into consumer societies. The essays collected here challenge conventional ideas about consumption and consumerism. They consider whether the inundation of Western consumer goods has created identity confusions among the affluent in Asia, and examine the expansion of consumer culture as a threat to the stability of anti-liberal states. Contributors include sociologists, economists, and political scientists from Asia, Australia, and Europe. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)
