Class Sociology of Communication and Consumption

Communication and consumption are two distinct but complementary elements that characterize Western society in contemporary times. This curricular unit aims to promote the knowledge of these two themes, analyzing the past, the present and the possible future trends, as social phenomena. Focus will be given to sociological issues in the context of communication and in the sphere of consumption, relevant dimensions in the elucidation of different domains of current societal life. The classes are based on the exposition, analysis and discussion of the various syllabus.

Not applicable

  1. Communication: a broad vision and holistic reflection - evolution, framework, proposals, foundations and approaches; 2. Media and communication; 3. Brands, communication strategies and advertising; 4. Consumption and lifestyles; 5. The consumption society; 6. Consumption as a social phenomenon; 7. Globalization in Western society: challenges and implications.

Discussion/debate of current sociological issues related to communication and consumption. Practical exercises.

Campbell, C. (1995). The sociology of consumption. In Acknowledging consumption: a review of new studies, 96-126, Routledge. Mesquita, K., Ruão, T. & Andrade, J. (2020). Transformações da comunicação organizacional: novas práticas e desafios nas mídias sociais. In Atas das VII Jornadas Doutorais em Comunicação & Estudos Culturais, 281-303, CECS. Santos, C. (2024). A contemporânea ‘Matriz dos 3 E’s’: emancipação, empoderamento e engajamento dos consumidores. In A publicidade na era da estimulação. UMinho Editora. Santos, C. (2021). No trilho da comunicação do século XXI: tendências e desafios. In  Audiovisual e indústrias criativas: presente e futuro, 835-849, McGraw Hill. Silva, S., Ruão, T. & Gonçalves, G. (2020). O estado de arte da comunicação organizacional: as tendências do século XXI. Observatorio, 14 (4), 98-118. Stillerman, J. (2015). The sociology of consumption: a global approach, Cambridge, Polity Press.