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I am doing an essay on John Kenneth Galbraith and his book The Affluent Society, and I need to construct an argument based on him. I dont understand economics language and what they are talking about and i would like to know more about as society becomes relatively more affluent, so private business must "create" consumer wants through advertising, and while it generates artificial affluence through the production of commercial goods and services, the "public sector" becomes neglected as a result.

When constructing an argument about a subject you don't understand, or are unclear about, you must first understand the topic. Read the information from the link listed below.

Introduction-

http://www.enotes.com/affluent-society/

Now turn your assigned statement into a series of question(s). How does a society become more affluent, according to Galbraith. Why would private businesses create artifical wants? How is this done through advertsing (Search logical fallacies in advertising.) I would then search through the text until I found Galbraith's definition of "artificial affluence".

Your teacher's question asserts that you must find a causal relationship between two theories. His/her question is listed in the "if then, therefore" format. If artificial affluence is created through the production of goods and services, thus creating neglect in the public sector, how does this happen?

 Skim through the text and find the words "public sector", use the index, or the glossary too. Once you've found the term--Galbraith will define it, and usually, will provide an example. He will the extend the theory into the topic you've been assigned.  Be patient, you'll have to reread some portions of the text. 

You must argue that "YES", the assertion (that artificial affluence creates neglect in the public sector) is true or "No" the assertion is not true.

Good luck and great writing!