Subject
Consumption (Economics) -- Fiction Books
Best books
Henry Still
Sales Resistance
"Sales Resistance" by Henry Still is a science fiction story written in the mid-20th century. The narrative unfolds in a society where consumerism is deeply embedded in culture, illustrating the extreme pressures individuals face to conform to the expectations of constant consumption and the reverence of sales personnel. The story likely explores themes related to individuality versus societal demands and critiques the pervasive influence of consumerism. The plot centers around Perry Mansfield, a young man struggling with his identity in a world that equates worth with consumption. After receiving a visit from a Master Salesman, Marlboro, who seeks to sell him an advanced appliance known as the Serve-All, Perry experiences pushing pressure to conform to the societal norm of relentless buying. Despite his initial desire to resist, he finds himself summoned to court for not wanting to purchase the device, showcasing the alarming consequences of non-compliance in this consumer-driven society. Ultimately, the tale highlights Perry's struggle for autonomy against a system that prioritizes consumption over personal choice, culminating in an ironic twist that underscores the story's critique of the consumer culture.
Fred Sheinbaum
Filthy Rich
"Filthy Rich" by Fred Sheinbaum is a science fiction story written during the late 1950s. The narrative is set in a futuristic society where consumerism is heavily emphasized, and individuality is often frowned upon. The book explores the interplay between wealth, societal norms, and personal relationships in a world where being a non-consumer is equated with moral corruption and subversive behavior. The story follows J.L. Spender, an assistant vice-president at the General Products Corporation, who is deeply concerned about his daughter Glory's infatuation with Ernest Stringer, a young man whose lifestyle and views clash with the consumer-based values J.L. holds dear. As the dinner progresses, J.L. struggles to understand and accept Stringer's unconventional perspective, leading to tension and conflict. The climax reveals that Stringer harbors a significant wealth hidden away in a secret bank account, positioning him as a 'non-consumer'—the ultimate betrayal of J.L.'s consumer-centric ideals. Ultimately, the story critiques the extremes of consumer culture while highlighting the generational divide between a father and his daughter concerning values and identity.
Allen Kim Lang
The Great Potlatch Riots
"The Great Potlatch Riots" by Allen Kim Lang is a satirical science fiction novella written during the late 1950s. The book humorously critiques consumer culture and the bureaucratic regulation of personal celebrations, particularly revolving around the commercialization of holidays and birthdays. Set in a future where the Bureau of Seasonal Gratuities oversees gift-giving quotas to stimulate the economy, the narrative explores the absurdity of enforced gratitude and the societal pressures placed on individuals to comply. The story follows Captain Wesley Winfree, a fervent officer within the Bureau, as he prepares for the largest Potlatch Day in two decades while also planning his wedding to Corporal Peggy MacHenery. Winfree's ambitious new initiative—requiring citizens to celebrate every birthday with gifts—sparks outrage among consumers who are already burdened by existing holiday quotas. As tensions escalate, a rebellion against the Bureau's enforcement leads to chaotic riots on the day of Winfree's wedding, highlighting the conflicts between individual desires and imposed societal norms. The narrative concludes with a humorous twist, as the Captain's encounter with the consumers forces both him and the readers to reflect on the true meaning of celebration and autonomy.
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