Consumption segregation

Date and country of first publication

2018
China

Definition

Consumption segregation refers to the phenomenon where individuals or groups within a society segregate themselves based on their patterns of consumption. This segregation can manifest in various ways:

1. Spatial Segregation: Certain neighborhoods or areas become associated with specific consumption patterns, such as luxury goods, organic products, or ethnic cuisine. This can lead to physical separation of groups based on their economic status or cultural preferences.

2. Social Segregation: Consumption habits can also segregate people socially. For example, certain social groups may engage in conspicuous consumption of high-status goods, thereby signaling their wealth or social standing. This can create barriers or distinctions between different social classes or groups.

3. Cultural Segregation: Consumption choices can be influenced by cultural factors, such as religious dietary restrictions or preferences for specific types of products. This cultural segregation can reinforce social or ethnic boundaries within a community.

4. Digital Segregation: In the digital age, consumption patterns can also segregate individuals online. Algorithms on social media and e-commerce platforms can tailor content and recommendations based on previous consumption behavior, potentially reinforcing existing preferences and segregating individuals into digital echo chambers.

Overall, consumption segregation highlights how consumption choices can contribute to social stratification and reinforce existing inequalities or distinctions within society.

Notes

At its current state, this definition has been generated by a Large Language Model (LLM) so far without review by an independent researcher or a member of the curating team of segregation experts that keep the Segregation Wiki online. While we strive for accuracy, we cannot guarantee its reliability, completeness and timeliness. Please use this content with caution and verify information as needed. Also, feel free to improve on the definition as you see fit, including the use of references and other informational resources. We value your input in enhancing the quality and accuracy of the definitions of segregation forms collectively offered in the Segregation Wiki ©.

Consumption segregation appears in the following literature

Davis D.R., Dingel J.I., Monras J., Morales E. (2019). How segregated is urban consumption?. Journal of Political Economy, 127(4), 1684-1738. University of Chicago Press.https://doi.org/10.1086/701680