The idea of luxury 

 -  Cambridge University Press,  1994 
 - xiv + 271 p. ; 23 cm 
<br/><br/> a conceptual and historical investigation 
<br/><br/> In this far-ranging and innovative study Christopher Berry explores the meanings and ramifications of the idea of luxury. Insights from political theory, philosophy and intellectual history are utilized in a sophisticated conceptual analysis that is complemented by a series of specific historical investigations. Dr. Berry suggests that the value attached to luxury is a crucial component in any society's self-understanding, and shows how luxury has changed from being essentially a negative term, threatening social virtue, to a guileless ploy supporting consumption. ;  
<br/><br/><label>ISBN: </label>9780521466912 
<br/><br/><label>Subjects--Uniform Titles: </label><br/>INDUSTRIAL & SERVICES SECTOR
<br/><br/><label>Subjects--Topical Terms: </label><br/>Luxury<br/> Consumption<br/>Luxury goods industry -- History<br/> Wealth Classical period<br/> Modernity and politics<br/>Trends<br/> Social identity