Sociology of Period Property Restoration

[biffvernon]

Radio 4's sociology spot has just been discussing our obsession with restoring our houses. Listen again here:

Thinking Allowed

 

[Penners]

Laurie Taylor says we each spend four grand a year on DIY. I think I've been doing more than my fair share.

 

[Nigel Watts]

Did he say 600 hours cleaning a cornice?

The main conclusion seems to be that people's motivation is a combination of "ritual cleansing" (removing the dirt and traces of recent occupants) and fear of "violation" (by gangs of builders bent on destruction), rather than enjoyment of the activity.

Who pays for these sociologists to conduct such studies? I suspect it is we taxpayers. If so I can think of some more productive uses of the money.

 

[Schoolmarm]

The main conclusion seems to be that people's motivation is a combination of "ritual cleansing" (removing the dirt and traces of recent occupants) and fear of "violation" (by gangs of builders bent on destruction), rather than enjoyment of the activity.

I have to say, this sums me up completely.

 

[Penners]

Nope. Can't identify with that at all.

I've never in my life felt at risk of being violated by gangs of builders.

 

[Schoolmarm]

You haven't lived. (should have had an exclamation mark or this emoticon, :wink: but frightened to overdo it as per forum rules)

 

[Penners]

And you have, eh?!