Consumerism

Definition

Consumerism is the social and economic ideology that encourages the acquisition of goods and services in ever-increasing amounts. It promotes the idea that personal happiness and social status can be achieved through the consumption of material possessions, influencing cultural values and individual identities.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Consumerism rose to prominence in the post-World War II era, particularly in Western societies, fueled by increased disposable income and mass production.
2. In theater, consumerism often critiques how commercial interests can overshadow artistic expression, leading to performances that cater to market demands rather than genuine creativity.
3. The impact of consumerism is visible in how plays incorporate themes related to identity, status, and the social implications of purchasing behavior.
4. Postmodern theater frequently challenges traditional narratives by highlighting the absurdity of consumer culture, often using parody and satire.
5. The relationship between art and commerce in theater reflects broader societal trends where success is often measured by ticket sales and audience demographics rather than artistic merit.

Review Questions

• How does consumerism influence the themes present in postmodern theater?
  • Consumerism significantly shapes the themes in postmodern theater by critiquing societal values that equate personal worth with material possessions. Playwrights often explore characters' struggles with identity in a consumer-driven world, revealing the emptiness that can accompany a life focused on consumption. Through this lens, postmodern performances question traditional narratives and showcase the absurdity of modern life influenced by commercial interests.
• In what ways do postmodern theatrical techniques reflect critiques of consumer culture?
  • Postmodern theatrical techniques, such as fragmentation, non-linear narratives, and self-referentiality, serve to reflect critiques of consumer culture by highlighting its disjointed nature. By employing irony and parody, these techniques expose the superficiality of consumerist values and challenge audiences to reconsider their relationship with material goods. This artistic approach encourages a critical examination of how consumerism shapes individual identities and societal norms.
• Evaluate the impact of consumerism on the production and reception of contemporary theater.
  • The impact of consumerism on contemporary theater is profound, as it dictates not only what stories are told but also how they are marketed to audiences. Productions often prioritize commercial viability over artistic integrity, leading to a landscape where box office success takes precedence. This focus can limit creative exploration but also opens up opportunities for innovative storytelling that resonates with audience desires. Ultimately, the interplay between consumer expectations and artistic expression continues to shape the evolution of modern theater.

Related terms

Materialism: Materialism is the tendency to prioritize material possessions and physical comfort over spiritual or intellectual values, often linked to consumer culture.

Capitalism: Capitalism is an economic system where private individuals own and control property and businesses, which drives consumer behavior through competition and profit motives.

Advertising: Advertising is the practice of promoting products or services through various media, significantly shaping consumer preferences and behaviors.