consommation

Consommation refers to the use of goods and services by households and other agents to satisfy wants and needs. In macroeconomics, consumption, often denoted C, is the largest component of aggregate demand and a primary driver of economic activity. It includes spending on durable goods (such as cars and appliances), nondurable goods (food, clothing) and services (healthcare, education). Public sector or government consumption denotes government purchases of goods and services but is counted separately from private consumption; together they contribute to overall demand.

National accounts measure consumption expenditure by households, typically adjusted for price changes to produce real consumption figures. The level and growth of consumption depend on disposable income, wealth, expectations about future income, interest rates, and access to credit. Theoretical models include the Keynesian consumption function, which posits a positive relationship between current income and consumption, as well as the life-cycle and permanent income hypotheses, which emphasize saving decisions over the long run.

Beyond economics, consommation also appears in environmental and social contexts, referring to the use of natural resources and energy. Sustainable consumption seeks to reduce environmental impact by improving efficiency, reducing waste, and encouraging changes in consumer preferences and behavior.

Historically, patterns of consumption have evolved with industrialization, urbanization, and globalization, shaping policy debates on taxation, welfare, and environmental regulation. The concept remains central to discussions of living standards, economic growth, and sustainable development.