A Case for Veblen’s Feminism: An Analysis of Gender in Veblen’s Social Theory

• In Event: 078 - Section on Sociology of Culture Refereed Roundtable Session
  In Refereed Roundtable 100min: Table 05. The Sociology of Taste

Abstract

Thorstein Veblen’s critical analysis on the American leisure class has been marginalized by academics for decades. Veblen’s most famous work, The Theory of the Leisure Class (1889) is recognized for its contributions to economics and notion of conspicuous consumption as a social stratification method in society. Veblen’s legacy is more than just an economic examination but can also be applied to feminist and sociological thought however his valid feminist theory is often neglected due to his personal indiscretions in his academic career. Although the reputation of his womanizing charm and the failure to acquire tenure at top tier universities proceeded Veblen throughout his academic career, it is time to include Veblen’s genuine and progressive feminist theory in the explanation of the socially constructed differences between men and women’s social status. Further, Veblen’s examination of the peaceable and predatory cultural habits in society and the effects of conspicuous waste and vicarious leisure explain the stagnant status of women in contemporary society regardless of surface level social progress. Contemporary feminist examinations leans toward Marxist conflict theory and fail to include a thorough cultural analysis.

Author

• Beatriz Aldana Marquez, Texas A&M University