Consumption patterns in developing regions: Their impact on family, community and cultural dynamics Case studies from Cusco, Peru

Abstract

Mainstream approaches usually follow standard economic principles which have been developed in order to better understand the behaviour of modern western consumers in a capitalist context. In time, we have come to understand that these same principles are profoundly inadequate in explaining third world consumption and even more inappropriate when attempting to expound its qualitative effects on living standards, family relations, community dynamics and cultural changes in developing regions. To make sense of this problematic, the problem will be outlined in broad terms and the present research's objectives clarified, along with its theoretical inclination, analytical framework and methodology. Then, to better understand the need for such a project, popular discourses on consumption in economics, development, globalization processes and cultural change will be reviewed. Then, a brief explanation as to why Peru was chosen as the site for this project's case studies will be presented, as well as a critique of Peruvian and Andean politico-economics. Finally, research findings and conclusions will be presented and discussed. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)