Marchandisation du vivant: The commodification of living beings, which has existed throughout history, involving practices such as slavery, prostitution, and trade of rare animal species and their parts. (source content)
The commodification of living beings has a long-standing history, evident in practices like slavery and prostitution, which represent early forms of the living market. Additionally, the trade of animal species and their organs, including skins, has historically been part of this market, reflecting an ongoing economic interest in living resources.
Understanding the deep historical roots of living commodification reveals how contemporary markets evolved from longstanding human practices.
New frontier of capital: The idea that living beings—humans, animals, and plants—represent the latest domain for capitalist expansion, as highlighted by André Orléan (2001), who states that "today, the new frontier of capital is the living."
1. How can knowledge of the historical roots of the living market be practically applied in contemporary policy or ethical discussions?
2. What is a key cause of the expansion of capitalism into all forms of living beings, according to the source?
3. What does the term 'Marchandisation du vivant' refer to in the context of the living market?
History of Living Market
Long-standing practices like slavery and animal trade.
Modern capitalism and living
Expanding market laws into all forms of life.
Marchandisation du vivant — definition?
Commodification of living beings including animals and humans.
Living market — historical examples?
Slavery, prostitution, trade of animal parts.
New frontier of capital — concept?
Expansion of capitalism into living beings.
Dimensions of humanity affected?
Health, nutrition, education, reproduction.
It covers the core concepts of The Economics of Living Markets, organized by topic with the key definitions, explanations and takeaways, so it's easier to learn and remember.
Read the full study guide →The practice quiz has 8 multiple-choice questions, each with an explanation. Use it to check what you know and find your gaps.
Take the quiz (8 questions) →There are 9 flashcards on The Economics of Living Markets, with a question on the front and the answer on the back. Try to recall each answer before you flip, and let spaced repetition bring back the ones you miss.
See all 9 flashcards →Upload a PDF or paste your notes. Revizly writes a study guide, a practice quiz and flashcards in about a minute.