2020-10-13

Last updated Aug 15, 2023

Sources/SocSci 12 - Class

• Fordism: assembly line; standards that need to be followed
• Mcdonaldization: “when a society adopts the characteristics of a fast-food restaurant” where there is worldwwide homogenization of cultures due to globalization
  • v.s. Fordism: mcdonaldization -> goal is homogenity
  • Principles
    • Efficiency
    • Calculability
    • Predictability
    • Control
  • Wider Society: extends as ripple effects through social life
    • driven by globalization
    • global homogenization of economic and social life
  • Downsides
    • focus on rationality actually produces irrationality (machines thinking for people)
    • rigid adherence to rules and policies of an organization:
      • loss of human capacity for reason
      • dehumanizing work conditions
  • Downsides
    • Labor Issues
      • does not required a skilled workorce
      • four principles eliminated the need for skilled workers
  • Consumer Experience
    • free consumer labor
    • socialized to complete production/dsitribution for free
  • Other
    • Education: quantity vs quality
    • Media: syndicated shows (e.g. The Voice), Netflix, mainstream Hollywood pattern
    • Female Beauty: standards and evaluation of beauty
    • Fashion global brands with global distribution
• Media is the biggest spreader of modern ideas; globalization would be impossible without this. Politics also shapes the media