Final answer:
High mass consumption entails the substantial purchase, ownership, and use of goods in industrial societies, influenced by marketing and driven by the pursuit of utility and satisfaction. Overconsumption often leads to waste and high energy usage, with developed countries showing higher consumption levels.
Step-by-step explanation:
The concept of high mass consumption refers to a characteristic of industrial societies where there is an increased level of the purchase, use, and ownership of goods. High mass consumption includes behaviors and practices such as buying in excess, disposing of items that are still functional, and being members of exclusive clubs that promote further consumption. Marketing techniques often play a significant role by associating products with desirable traits or statuses, a concept known as commodity fetishism.
Examples of high mass consumption can be seen in the unnecessary disposal and destruction of unsold food products and clothing by retailers, excessive energy usage in everyday activities, and the frequent replacement of still serviceable appliances. Globally, developed countries with high industrial activity tend to exhibit higher levels of consumption and energy use compared to less developed countries, reflecting the economic and industrial disparities between them.
Economic theories suggest that individuals strive for high levels of utility and satisfaction, which often leads to greater consumption of goods. However, each additional unit consumed may contribute less to overall satisfaction, known as diminishing marginal utility. Additionally, the consumption patterns can be influenced by the pricing of goods; higher prices generally reduce the demand for goods, while also potentially affecting the consumption of other products.