Possessions, Emotion, and Social Meaning: A Sociological Exploration of Estate Sales

• In Event: Narratives of Emotion: Situational, Temporal, Flexible

Abstract

This paper is a sociological exploration of estate sales and the professionalization of taking care of material objects after death. It explores the underlying dynamics of emotion, grief, privacy, cultural consumption, and the meanings of life people go through in deciding what to do with material things after someone dies. This study draws on an in-depth qualitative analysis including interviews of family members and estate sale professionals, in-person observation of estate sales, and text analysis of marketing materials. This research will help people understand diverse approaches to managing emotions, constructing identity, and making decisions about things. Insights can provide better self-awareness, open family conversations for decision making, and provide sources for critiquing marketing and emotional manipulation from those selling products and services related to objects.

Author

• Nancy S. Berns, Drake University