Overview
2,500 word essay from a list of prepared topics and questions which will be issued to the class by week 8. Students will be assessed on their ability to precisely answer a specific question using both module materials and independent research. Essays must advance a clear thesis and demonstrate a critical engagement with conceptual and theoretical issues discussed in the module.
Essays must draw on key and supplementary readings, as well as independent library research on relevant scholarly materials that fit within the overall scope of the module. Students will be evaluated on the quality of the analysis, ability to utilise module materials, and demonstrate independent library research skills. There is no minimum/maximum number of references that must be included.
Eessay from a list of prepared topics and questions which will be issued to the class by week 8 (see below). Students will be assessed on their ability to precisely answer a specific question using both module materials and independent research. Essays must advance a clear thesis and demonstrate a critical engagement with conceptual and theoretical issues discussed in the module. Essays must draw on key and supplementary readings, as well as independent library research on relevant scholarly materials that fit within the overall scope of the module. Students will be evaluated on the quality of the analysis, ability to utilise module materials, and demonstrate independent library research skills. There is no minimum/maximum number of references that must be included.
Please remember: the teaching staff are not available to advise students on coursework via email. Students must speak to the teaching team during teaching hours, book office hours, or attend the assessment workshop on week 11 (details TBA).
Topics
1 - Mundane Matters
Pick a mundane consumer practice and write an essay that critically analyses its social significance. Your analysis must draw on relevant module materials and discuss how the practice is socially meaningful in everyday life.
2 - Digital Consumption
How is digital media changing consumption? Pick one example of digital media (social media platform, streaming platform, website, eCommerce platform, video game, etc…) to support your analysis. Your paper must draw on relevant module materials.
3 - Spaces of Consumption
Visit an urban environment that is based around consumption and go shopping (you don’t have to actually buy anything!). You will then write an essay that discusses your experience and reflects on the social and spatial aspects using relevant module materials. Examples of urban environments could include department stores, retailers, boutiques, fast food restaurants, shopping malls, high streets, entertainment centres, cinemas, and so forth.
4 - Consumption and Morality
Should we celebrate or condemn consumer culture, and on what grounds? Your argument must draw on relevant module materials.