Lifestyles in Turkey in the context of Thorstein B. Veblen's concept of conspicuous consumption

The aim of this study to assess the lifestyles in Turkey within conspicuous consumption in terms of the fact that consumption is an instrument that determines the social status of individuals, not an instrument that meets the needs of them. The concept of consumption has different meanings in our age. While consumption means the meeting of needs, it also amounts to the individuals' prestige and distinction on her/his social environment. Consumers highlight their social status and class distinction by consuming the messages of goods. Thorstein B. Veblen claimed conspicuous consumption that is realized by giving messages on social status. Veblen puts forward that the goods that are related to conspicuous consumption get status, prestige and identity for individuals. The concept of lifestyle is also significant in our age, like the concept of conspicuous consumption. This concept amounts to individuals' choices and leisure activities about spending their money and time. There is an important relation between lifestyle and consumption. Some factors such as social class, personality, experience and so on create different lifestyles. The individuals within different lifestyles have different consumption actions. As regards, the lifestyles in Turkey are assessed in this study.