Consumption and the Internet

Abstract

Consumption is the act of choosing, acquiring, using, and disposing of a good. The Internet has profoundly changed what, how, and when people consume – with wide implications for social interactions. Simultaneously, consumption has played a key role in shaping the Internet. Many Internet services are designed to encourage consumption and are funded, ultimately, by branding and advertising. This means that the relationship between consumption and the Internet has implications for social affiliation, communication, identity, politics, and social stratification. This entry explores these issues.