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The commodification of the past, postmodern pastiche, and the search for authentic experiences at contemporary heritage attractions

Christina Goulding (The Business School, University of Wolverhampton, UK)

European Journal of Marketing

ISSN: 0309-0566

Article publication date: 1 August 2000

11439

Abstract

Aims to explore the nature of authenticity as defined and constructed by visitors to sites of heritage. The concept of authenticity is explored through the literature relating to the commodification of the past and also in the context of postmodern theories regarding the blurring of the boundaries between high and mass culture. The paper draws on findings from a study of consumer behaviour at three distinct attractions and offers an explanation of authentic experiences in the light of three identified types; the “existential”, the “aesthetic” and the “social” visitor. These findings are then discussed in relation to theoretical and managerial implications.

Keywords

Citation

Goulding, C. (2000), "The commodification of the past, postmodern pastiche, and the search for authentic experiences at contemporary heritage attractions", European Journal of Marketing, Vol. 34 No. 7, pp. 835-853. https://doi.org/10.1108/03090560010331298

Publisher

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MCB UP Ltd

Copyright © 2000, MCB UP Limited

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