Consumerism
In 1899, Thorstein Veblen published  a book on consumerism, called The Theory of the Leisure Class. In the book, Veblen looked at the widespread values and economic institutions which started with the widespread "leisure time" in the beginning of the 20th century. He also introduces the concepts of conspicuous and vicarious consumption and waste. All are related to display of status, and not on how useful or functional something is. Today, these kinds of goods are known as Veblen goods.