Amazon: At the Intersection of Culture and Capital

This collection provides an up-to-date, comprehensive academic study of Amazon, making it an essential tool for researchers in the humanities and social sciences interested in examining other capitalist platform systems and the diverse social, political, economic, and cultural issues they entail.

Format: Hardback
Length: 366 pages
Publication date: 20 December 2022
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield

This comprehensive collection offers the most up-to-date and in-depth academic study of Amazon, serving as an essential resource for researchers in the humanities and social sciences who wish to explore not only Amazon but also other capitalist platform systems and the wide range of social, political, economic, and cultural issues they entail. Given the vast and intricate nature of Amazon, it is impossible for any single researcher to comprehensively cover all aspects of the platform. Therefore, the book is structured as an edited collection, allowing the editors to bring together a diverse range of expertise, critical insights, and methodological depth to achieve the goal of being the first comprehensive book to critically analyze Amazon as a technology platform.

The editors of this collection have assembled a team of esteemed scholars from various fields, including technology studies, economics, sociology, and cultural studies. Each chapter in the book provides a unique perspective on Amazon and its impact on society, drawing on a wealth of research and data. The chapters are organized in a logical and coherent manner, allowing readers to follow a chronological or thematic approach to their study.

One of the key strengths of this collection is its ability to critically analyze Amazon as a technology platform. The editors explore the company's history, business model, and technological innovations, as well as the social, economic, and cultural implications of its growth. They examine how Amazon has disrupted traditional industries, created new opportunities for entrepreneurs and consumers, and raised concerns about labor practices, privacy, and the concentration of power in the digital economy.

Another important aspect of the collection is its consideration of the broader societal implications of Amazon. The editors discuss how Amazon has shaped consumer behavior, influenced public opinion, and contributed to the development of new forms of social interaction and communication. They explore how Amazon has impacted the distribution of goods and services, the growth of e-commerce, and the changing nature of work and employment.

The collection also addresses the ethical and philosophical questions raised by Amazon's growth. The editors explore how the company's emphasis on efficiency, profit, and growth has impacted the well-being of its employees, customers, and the broader society. They examine how Amazon has dealt with issues such as data privacy, intellectual property rights, and the impact of its operations on the environment.

In conclusion, this comprehensive collection offers a valuable and timely contribution to the study of Amazon and its impact on society. It is an indispensable tool for researchers in the humanities and social sciences who wish to explore the complex and multifaceted nature of this technology platform. The editors have assembled a team of distinguished scholars who provide a wealth of critical insights and methodological depth, making this book an essential resource for anyone interested in understanding the future of capitalism and the digital economy.

Weight: 704g
Dimension: 158 x 237 x 31 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781538165225