The Unfashionable Mr. Owen Virtual Conversation

Event Details

In this online presentation, Dr. Gregory Claeys, professor emeritus of history at the University of London,  examines Robert Owen’s idea of exchanging conspicuous consumption for a rational frugality. Owen’s opposition to fashion, in particular, indicates an attitude of rational consumption in which competition for the esteem of others, most notably through clothing, was to be substituted for the extraordinary flamboyance in display which marked his own time, and which in his view produced additional hardship for the working classes. Owen unfolded these views at various points, and several efforts were made to implement them and at New Harmony other communities.

This event takes place online via Zoom. To register, click on the RSVP link above. Note that the program begins at 1 p.m. Central Daylight Time.

For more information, contact Historic New Harmony at harmony@usi.edu.

This program received funding from an Indiana Humanities Action Grant.