As part of UNM’s Lightning Lounge Series, Dr. Dimitri Kapelianis and Dr. Manuel Montoya will be presenting their research on Ukukhothana, a form of conspicuous consumption and destruction among poor black youth in South Africa. In highly-stylized public displays, competing crews gather to flaunt and taunt, displaying luxury goods while boasting of their superiority, culminating in acts of conspicuous destruction in which the luxury products are ripped, smashed, or burned. Their research yields insights into the main features of ukukhothana as well as the drivers for engaging in this behavior.
The event takes place on Thursday, March 19th from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Faculty-Staff Club. The public is welcome.
