ABSTRACT
This chapter addresses three central discourses in, or aspects of, the general field of consumption and the environment. It concerns (1) the relationship between needs and wants, (2) the tension between rational models of consumer behaviour and models based on routines and habits and (3) the question of political consumption. The aim is to develop a multi-dimensional understanding of the role of consumers and consumption in modern societies, relevant to the discussion on sustainable consumption. Further, this understanding will be used to develop a model for analysing and catalysing changes in a sustainable direction.
