' The Political Economy of Status - Gary Dymski, University of Leeds, UK - Wilfred Dolfsma, University of Groningen, the Netherlands In this timely book, Theodore Koutsobinas explores the system of status markets and their social effects including inequality. He explains how media fascination with superstars and luxury consumption goods amplify positional concerns for all, distort the aspirations of the middle class and cause relative deprivation. Building on themes first identified by Veblen and Galbraith, the author analyses extensively the behavioral evidence from modern interdisciplinary research and contributes constructively to a new genre of economic analysis. compels us to seriously consider redistributive culture change policies targeted to assist the underprivileged. This book will be a valuable and lively reading resource for academics in various fields including economic theory, political economy, sociology, social psychology and cultural studies. : 1. Introduction : Status, Superstars and Markets 2. The Economics of Status and Superstar Markets 3. The Fundamental Forces: Technology, Tastes and Values 4. Psychology and Behavioural Forces 5. The Anthropology of Popular Culture and Identity Formation 6. The Sociology of Distinction, Superiority and Deprivation 7. Contentment, Politics and the Philosophy of Superiority 8. Alternative Policies for Positional Activities 9. The Political Economy of Status and Culture Change Policy Index