Audiobooks by Thorstein Veblen

'The Instinct of Workmanship' is a book written by Thorstein Veblen, an American economist and social theorist. The book was published in 1914 and explores the relationship between humans and their work. Veblen argues that the instinct of workmanship is a fundamental human trait that drives individuals to create and produce. This instinct is rooted in our desire to improve our own lives and the lives of those around us. However, Veblen also contends that this instinct is often hindered by the influence of social and economic institutions, such as the profit motive, the division of labor, and the competitive nature of capitalist markets. Veblen explores the implications of these hindrances for individual well-being, social progress, and economic development. He argues that the current economic system is inefficient and wasteful, and that it fails to promote the full expression of the instinct of workmanship. He proposes alternative economic and social structures that could better facilitate the development and expression of this instinct, such as a society based on collective ownership and control of production. Overall, 'The Instinct of Workmanship' is an important contribution to the fields of economics and sociology, and it remains relevant to contemporary debates about the nature and purpose of work, the role of institutions in shaping human behavior, and the possibilities for creating a more just and equitable society.

Thorstein Veblen (Author), Ethan Williams (Narrator)

Audiobook

The Theory of the Leisure Class

'The Theory of the Leisure Class' is a book written by Thorstein Veblen, an American economist and sociologist. The book is a seminal work of economic sociology and a critique of the consumption-driven culture of the late 19th century United States. Veblen's central thesis is that the upper class, or the 'leisure class,' engages in conspicuous consumption as a way of displaying their social status and wealth. This behavior, he argues, is not only wasteful and unproductive but also harmful to society as a whole, as it perpetuates a culture of inequality and social stratification. Veblen also discusses the role of technology in shaping society, arguing that the development of machines and industrial processes has led to the emergence of a new class of technocrats who control the means of production and wield significant power over the rest of society. Overall, 'The Theory of the Leisure Class' is a critical examination of the social and economic structures that shape modern society. It remains a landmark work in the field of economic sociology and has had a profound influence on the study of consumption, social stratification, and the role of technology in society

Thorstein Veblen (Author), Ethan Williams (Narrator)

Audiobook

The Theory of the Leisure Class (Unabridged)

This audiobook is narrated by a digital voice. Ever wonder why the wealthy seem to spend lavishly on things they don't need? In 'The Theory of the Leisure Class,' Thorstein Veblen cracks the code. Prepare to be surprised (and maybe a little disgusted) as he reveals the hidden motives behind conspicuous consumption and conspicuous leisure, where the wealthy flaunt their wealth not for utility, but for social status. Veblen's witty and scathing critique will leave you questioning everything you thought you knew about the modern upper class and the true cost of keeping up appearances.

Thorstein Veblen (Author), Digital Voice Marcus G (Narrator)

Audiobook

The Theory of the Leisure Class

In this, his best-known work, the controversial American economist and social critic Thorstein Veblen appropriates Darwin's theory of evolution to analyze the modern industrial system. For Veblen, the shallowness and superficiality observed in society results from the tendency to believe that true accomplishment lies in arriving at a condition of ostentatious wealth and status. In developing his thesis, Veblen traces the origins and development of ownership and property, offering extraordinary insights into consumerism, the evolution of class structure, the rise of leisure time, and how modern societal goals are grounded in monetary aspirations and achievements.With a cool gaze and devastating wit, Veblen examines the human cost paid when social institutions are founded on the consumption of unessential goods for the sake of personal profit. Fashion, beauty, sports, the home, the clergy, scholars-all are assessed for their true usefulness and found wanting. Indeed, Veblen's critique covers all aspects of modern life from dress, class, industry, business, and home decoration to religion, scholarship, education, and the position of women, laying bare the hollowness of many cherished standards of taste and culture.The targets of Veblen's brilliant, scathing satire are as evident today as they were when this classic of economic and social theory was first published, and his book still has the power to shock and enlighten.

Thorstein Veblen (Author), John Lescault (Narrator)

Audiobook