About the Book: Hazel Kyrk’s A Theory of Consumption is a pioneering work in consumer economics that examines how people make choices about spending, necessities and luxuries. First published in 1923, Kyrk’s influential study combines economics, sociology and psychology to explore how family, education, culture, occupation, income and social expectations shape consumer behaviour. She also examines standards of living, productive versus wasteful consumption, and the wider implications of household choices for society and public policy. Remarkably relevant to modern consumer culture, this classic work offers valuable insights into consumer behaviour, economic decision-making, social values and the pressures that drive consumption.