Attending Performing Arts: a Consumption System Model of Buying-Consuming Experiences

ABSTRACT - Consumers seek pleasurable experiences when attending performing arts. Yet no theory exists to explain and predict the buying-consuming experiences associated with this unique consumption activity. We apply AGeneral Living Systems Theory@ (GLST) to offer a systems-based model intended to be useful in this respect. Our work contributes to some important streams of research. For certain types of hedonic consumption, behaviour can only be understood in the light of the subtleties of consumer interpretation and the entire buying-consuming process. The suggested GLST paradigm attempts to go beyond choice to achieve an understanding of lived experiences within the realities perceived by consumers.

Citation:

M.L. Caldwell and Arch Woodside (2001) ,"Attending Performing Arts: a Consumption System Model of Buying-Consuming Experiences", in NA - Advances in Consumer Research Volume 28, eds. Mary C. Gilly and Joan Meyers-Levy, Valdosta, GA : Association for Consumer Research, Pages: 348.

Advances in Consumer Research Volume 28, 2001     Page 348

ATTENDING PERFORMING ARTS: A CONSUMPTION SYSTEM MODEL OF BUYING-CONSUMING EXPERIENCES

M.L. Caldwell, University of New South Wales

Arch Woodside, University of New South Wales

ABSTRACT -

Consumers seek pleasurable experiences when attending performing arts. Yet no theory exists to explain and predict the buying-consuming experiences associated with this unique consumption activity. We apply "General Living Systems Theory" (GLST) to offer a systems-based model intended to be useful in this respect. Our work contributes to some important streams of research. For certain types of hedonic consumption, behaviour can only be understood in the light of the subtleties of consumer interpretation and the entire buying-consuming process. The suggested GLST paradigm attempts to go beyond choice to achieve an understanding of lived experiences within the realities perceived by consumers.

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