Concept
«Modes of Possession» is a three-book series exploring the various ways people establish a relationship with objects: collecting, shopaholism, and kleptomania. Despite their differences, in all three cases, the object ceases to be merely an item and acquires psychological significance.The series examines why acquiring, preserving, or appropriating objects is important to a person, and what role these objects play in their emotions, self-perception, and daily behavior. The three books illustrate different manifestations of a single drive—to forge a connection with an object and make it «theirs.»
Compulsive buying—a form of possession where the act of purchasing itself gradually becomes more significant than the item. A person acquires an object not only because they need it, but because the purchase helps alter an internal state: relieving tension, gaining pleasure, feeling a sense of control, boosting self-esteem, or moving closer to an ideal self-image. Within this series, this book occupies a middle ground between collecting and kleptomania.
