| Author: | Elfick, Tse-mui Jacqueline |
| Title: | Transnational consumer culture and middle class professionals : an ethnographic account of consumption and identity in post-reform China |
| Degree: | Ph.D. |
| Year: | 2009 |
| Subject: | Hong Kong Polytechnic University -- Dissertations Consumer behavior -- China Middle class -- China -- Economic conditions. Group identity -- China. |
| Department: | School of Design |
| Pages: | xii, 218 p. ; 31 cm. |
| Language: | English |
| Abstract: | This is an ethnographic account examining the role of consumption practices and narratives of transnational capitalism in the construction of urban middle class identity. Improved access to mass media and communication technologies has exposed individuals to transnational consumer culture. Many young professionals aspire to link themselves with this culture as it invokes status and implies sophistication. Transnational consumer identity as negotiated in Shenzhen emphasizes the consumption of experiences as well as goods. This constitutes an epistemological shift in the study of consumption as traditionally the focus has been on the consumption of goods. In Shenzhen, having the means that permit the frequent consumption of transnational consumer experiences, as well as an understanding of how to engage in these experiences appropriately, has come to constitute middle class identity. |
| Rights: | All rights reserved |
| Access: | open access |
Files in This Item:
| File | Description | Size | Format | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| b23429975.pdf | For All Users | 2 MB | Adobe PDF | View/Open |
Copyright Undertaking
As a bona fide Library user, I declare that:
- I will abide by the rules and legal ordinances governing copyright regarding the use of the Database.
- I will use the Database for the purpose of my research or private study only and not for circulation or further reproduction or any other purpose.
- I agree to indemnify and hold the University harmless from and against any loss, damage, cost, liability or expenses arising from copyright infringement or unauthorized usage.
By downloading any item(s) listed above, you acknowledge that you have read and understood the copyright undertaking as stated above, and agree to be bound by all of its terms.
Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item:
https://theses.lib.polyu.edu.hk/handle/200/5676