The quasi-peaceable gentleman of leisure, then, not only consumes of the staff of life beyond the minimum required for subsistence and physical efficiency, but his consumption also undergoes a specialisation as regards the quality of the goods consumed. He consumes freely and of the best, in food, drink, narcotics, shelter, services, ornaments, apparel, weapons and accoutrements, amusements, amulets, and idols or divinities.
Thorstein VeblenLabor wants pride and joy in doing good work, a sense of making or doing something beautiful or useful - to be treated with dignity and respect as brother and sister.
Thorstein VeblenIt is always sound business to take any obtainable net gain, at any cost, and at any risk to the rest of the community.
Thorstein VeblenThe dog commends himself to our favor by affording play to our propensity for mastery
Thorstein Veblen