ABSTRACT
The theoretical framework used in this book and discussed in this chapter links Veblen’s conspicuous consumption and five Confucian constants. These constants represent an enduring East Asian cultural philosophy that contributes towards constructing 21st-century East Asian mobilities consumption in the Arctic. The framework is founded on a critical review of Veblen’s conceptualisation of conspicuous consumption. Born within the notion of Veblen-defined leisure, two forms of conspicuous consumption are delineated: 1) conspicuous consumption as per Veblen’s time and space and 2) conspicuous consumption as forecasted by Veblen beyond his time and space. Focusing on the second form of conspicuous consumption, the chapter presents possible interactions between contemporary conspicuous consumption and the Confucian five constants related to Arctic mobilities.
