The Virtue of Auction Houses

Abstract ‘The Virtue of Auction Houses’ shows auction houses to be important centres of recycling using philosophical theory combined with first-hand experience. The notion of ‘waste’ is explored – luxury items lying unworn and unused. This has moral implications and negates our ability to understand these objects. The auction house gives voice to these pieces once again. But why should we take the time to acknowledge these ideas? The answer is twofold: firstly, we can encourage self-reflection on the part of vendor, allaying any feelings of guilt they may have concerning the sale of those same pieces. Secondly, we can use these concepts to promote the auction industry as a whole, engaging a new audience of considerate, considered buyers.