Consumption and leisure is an intrinsic part of modern life and the dominant economy in Macao. But what is a 'consumer society'? What is the essence of economic and social relationship in consumer society and how is it different from other ways of structuring society? What is 'consumerist culture' that is blamed for causing family disintegration and social alienation? This course will take students through the key readings and theories on consumption and leisure and on modernity and globalization at large, which are built upon classical sociological theories. The theories will be combined with topical discussion and case studies.

CILO-1: Acquire basic knowledge on the ideas of advanced sociological concepts and theories in explaining consumer society. CILO-2: Identify potential research directions (at the postgraduate level) by reviewing cutting-edge original research and literature. CILO-3: Analyze the individual consumption behaviours from structural perspectives, and revisit their own consumption and/or working experiences from a reflexive and critical angle.