The turn of the twenty-first century witnessed a spectacular rise in gross consumption. With the super-rich setting the pace, everyone spent furiously in a desperate attempt to keep up. As cars and houses grew larger and more expensive, the costs were enormous - not only monetarily but also socially. Consumers spent more time at work and less time with their family and friends; they saved less money and borrowed more. In this book, Robert Frank presents the first comprehensive and accessible account of these financial choices. Frank uses scientific evidence to demonstrate how these spending patterns have not made us happier or healthier. "Luxury Fever" offers an exit from the rat race, suggesting ways to curb the culture of excess and restore true value to our lives.
- ISBN10 0691070113
- ISBN13 9780691070117
- Publish Date 25 September 2000
- Publish Status Out of Print
- Out of Print 23 July 2013
- Publish Country US
- Imprint Princeton University Press
- Format Paperback (US Trade)
- Pages 336
- Language English
- URL https://press.princeton.edu/titles/6937.html