Consumed

In this book, Benjamin R. Barber argues that modern capitalist consumer culture has a corrosive effect on society.

He contends that consumerist capitalism creates an 'infantilist ethos' that targets children as consumers and prevents adults from maturing, leading to a culture of impetuous consumption.

Barber criticizes the way consumerism fabricates needs among those who already have their basic needs met, while ignoring those who lack the means to enter the marketplace.

He advocates for a return to citizenship and civic engagement as a way to counter the detrimental effects of consumerism on democracy and civic life.