ABSTRACT
Ample historic evidence exists to suggest that even earlier versions of our present selves may have fabricated some form of material culture; a culture riddled with such familiar-sounding traits as interactivity, symbolism, inter-societal comparing and strong emotional attachments to one's material possessions. Earlier forms of material culture embodied an animistic appreciation of the physical world not too different from the way we perceive it today. It is worth noting that the history of consumerism shows that there is a relationship between changes in culture and changes in consumption patterns. It shows further that these changes move away from communal values toward individualism and materialism. Having such a materialistic value orientation leads individuals to desire material objects communicating their financial success, desirable status and power. It is vital that this chapter revisits the methods through which it discusses sustainability and the way in which it is shared, discussed and implemented within creative practice.
