Production,consumption,prosumption: How George Ritzer shifted the conversation in sociology from work to consumption and beyond

Abstract

This reflection traces the intellectual legacy of George Ritzer and his profound impact on the sociology of consumption, beginning with The McDonaldization of Society. Ritzer shifted focus from work and production to consumption, critiquing modern life through themes of rationalization, self-service, and the blurring of production–consumption boundaries. His work on credit cards, “cathedrals of consumption,” and globalization helped expose the dehumanizing effects of mass consumerism. Ritzer's later writing on “nothing” and “something” further highlighted the spread of impersonal global forms of consumption. Most recently, his work on “prosumption” reflects the increasing expectation for consumers to perform unpaid labor. Drawing from this body of work, the author applies Ritzer's theories to self-checkout lanes and self-service technologies, emphasizing their broader social, economic, and legal implications. Ultimately, Ritzer's contributions remain foundational for understanding consumption's central role in modern society and continue to inspire new generations of sociologists.