In the a brief article I recently read on McDonald's in society the author draws a parallel between our culture and the changing fast food marketplace. It seems to the author that clearly the American culture is more worried about speed and convenience than health and quality. In other words we have become a quantity not quality system. This had seemed to be a well developed trend considering the author compares it to many happenings in everyday life. For example he relates McDonaldization to the constant mechanization of the culture. Day in and day out we have more and more ties to machines to do things for us.
Some people believe that this is a emphasis on cheapness is a horrible thing and a detriment to a culture. I believe that what the market demands should happen. This is why today you begin to see more and more healthy food in the market place. If this trend continues I believe that fast food establishments such as McDonald's will have to start subbing in new healthier choices. The way this happens is you vote for what you want with your dollar, so far we have ask for speed and convenience and taste. This is just begging to shift and I think if it continues and is not just a fad McDonaldization will fall.
Is McDonald's a negative in society? How much control do they actually play in shaping it?
Do you see quantity trends continuing or stopping?
Ryan,
ReplyDeleteI think that as long as there is a large number of people living below the poverty line, McDonald's will continue to be a prominent presence in our society. The fact that their food is so cheap makes it possible for many people to simply feed themselves.
I think the drift towards the whole rationalization thing (becoming dependent on fast food and other conveniences like McDonalds) was/is so prevalent because the advantages are so immediate and recognizable, where as the negative effects aren't as easily seen. The negative effects have started becoming more apparent, and this is why Certain Americans have started taking some initiative. But I think the only way more will people to jump on the anti-McDonalds train is if the negative effects become even more apparent.
ReplyDeleteAlthough I agree that the fact that fast food restaurant like McDonald's are offering affordable fast cuisine insures that they will continue to be a presence, I think that this makes it their social responsibility to enlighten the consumer on health of their product. Furthermore it is important for the consumer to not take the easy way and consciously attempt to eat healthier.
ReplyDeleteAll in all they are a business trying to make money. They are going to try to make tasty fast food to attract costumers and they do a good job. I don't think you can use the poverty excuse because you can survive off less money by eating at home. Also if you can afford enough McDonalds food to get you fat you can afford other foods.
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