Consumer culture

Definition

Consumer culture is a social and economic order that encourages the acquisition of goods and services in ever-increasing amounts. It often revolves around the idea that personal happiness and social status are linked to material possessions, driving people to prioritize consumption in their daily lives. This culture is reflected in media representations and influences how news outlets present information, particularly when sensationalism and tabloid journalism are involved, as they often cater to the audience's appetite for drama and scandal.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Consumer culture emerged significantly in the 20th century, especially post-World War II, as economies expanded and advertising became more prevalent.
2. In consumer culture, brands play a vital role as they create emotional connections with consumers, impacting their purchasing decisions.
3. Sensationalism in media thrives on consumer culture by focusing on stories that attract attention and drive consumption of news, thereby generating higher viewership and profits.
4. Tabloid journalism often embodies consumer culture by prioritizing celebrity gossip, scandalous events, and sensational headlines to appeal to public interests.
5. The cycle of consumer culture is driven by a constant push for novelty, where new products are frequently introduced to maintain consumer interest and encourage ongoing consumption.

Review Questions

• How does consumer culture influence the types of stories that are prioritized in sensationalism and tabloid journalism?
  • Consumer culture significantly impacts the types of stories prioritized by sensationalism and tabloid journalism by creating a demand for content that captivates audiences. Media outlets often focus on scandalous or dramatic narratives that align with public interests, maximizing viewership. This influence leads to a cycle where more outrageous stories garner attention, reinforcing the values associated with consumer culture.
• In what ways do advertisements reflect consumer culture's values, particularly in relation to sensationalism?
  • Advertisements reflect consumer culture's values by often utilizing sensational elements to capture attention and evoke emotions. They may employ dramatic visuals or exaggerated claims to highlight products' benefits, aligning with sensationalist tendencies found in tabloid journalism. This approach not only draws consumers but also reinforces the notion that happiness and status are linked to material goods.
• Evaluate the relationship between consumer culture and the ethical implications for journalism in today's media landscape.
  • The relationship between consumer culture and ethical implications for journalism is complex. As media outlets strive to attract consumers through sensationalism, they may sacrifice journalistic integrity for profit. This trend raises concerns about accuracy, responsibility, and the quality of information presented. The pursuit of audience engagement can overshadow critical reporting, leading to a media environment where sensationalism becomes commonplace, ultimately shaping public perception in ways that may not serve the truth.

Related terms

Materialism: A value system that prioritizes material wealth and physical possessions over spiritual or intellectual values.

Commercialization: The process of managing or running something primarily for financial gain, often leading to the promotion of consumer goods and services.

Branding: The practice of creating a name, symbol, or design that identifies and differentiates a product from others, often influencing consumer perceptions and preferences.