The values of an industrial society are deeply rooted in Consumer Culture. Now, as
Industrial Revolution, we are beginning to transition into a post-industrial society.
shift in societal values, including our reliance on consumption as a primary means
status projection. Recognizing that trends in goods and services consumption are
economic, technological, and social fabric that they inhabit, this paper explores the
consumer behaviour for senior management and industry consultants interested in
the consumer landscape ahead. By examining the history of consumer culture, we
the societal function of consumption in the present. By examining the present, we
the societal evolutionary shift that is upon us. By exploring the potential futures,
opportunities that may arise and make active decisions about the priorities for our
with evolving consumers values. Many of the systems that have thrived over the
incompatible with the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Short-term interests cannot be
vision, but long-term vision cannot be realized without short-term survival. By
barriers to economic participation that are likely to emerge as we fully transition
Industrial Revolution, we can make more conscious choices about how we respond
individual organizations and at a societal level.