Consumerism Vs. Democracy - Century of the Self

Consumerism has long been heralded as the hallmark of modern society, shaping our perceptions, desires, and ultimately, our identities. Over the past century, corporations have orchestrated a relentless campaign aimed at convincing the public that products are the key element of stability and contentment in our lives. They have convinced most Americans that the key to happiness and self-actualization lies in buying the right things.

The rise of consumerism was not an organic development, but a well thought out strategy to undermine democracy at the highest levels of society. Join us as we discuss the individuals primarily responsible for turning active citizens into passive consumers and how their hatred for the public led from an unethical pursuit of profit to the hunt for political power.