Publication Date
2020
Abstract
Marketing is largely about the satisfaction of enduring human needs. That is, marketers strive to provide goods and services that people need to help to them meet the demands of life and achieve goals that they wish to achieve. In addition, marketers promote products to help preserve life and enhance the enjoyment of life. Marketers are also involved with what must be done when a life ends. This case explores the history of final disposition practices in the United States and emerging trends in the final disposition industry. The two most common final disposition methods, burial and cremation, are discussed as well as newer options for the final disposition of the body of one who has died. The case also explores how the final disposition industry is adapting to the changing preferences of survivors of the deceased, touches on the different final disposition practices found in various subcultural groups as well as changing societal norms regarding final disposition practices in the United States.