In order to gain and to hold the esteem of men, wealth must be put in evidence, for esteem is awarded only on evidence. Conspicuous consumption of valuable goods is a means of reputability to the gentleman of leisure. As wealth accumulates, mere possession of goods ceases to afford adequate distinction; the consumer must display wasteful expenditure to demonstrate pecuniary strength before envious peers. Utility gives way to ostentation, transforming economic life into an exhausting pageant of social rivalry where contentment remains perpetually unattainable.