Globalizing Americana: Part 9 - A Culture Enslaved

A Culture Enslaved

There is a question one should ask about how we are classified, how we are characterized within Americana. The question pertains not only to our roles as citizens and laborers, but also to a more fundamental purpose, a purpose that as of yet remains to be discussed.

The question is, “What word do economists use to describe us?”

The answer to this question is surprisingly simple, but its ramifications are anything but trivial. Economists describe us as consumers. We are, in a very strict sense, consumers. We are classified by our ability to consume. On an even deeper level of interpretation we are the embodiment of consumption. To say that something is necessitates that thing’s existence. Thus, to say we are consumers necessitates at least the perceived existence of this conception of consumption.

But what is consumption?

Consumers consume, which is not to be redundant. We are, metaphorically speaking, decomposers. We digest, assume, purchase, and bequeath the products of capitalism. Without our efforts as consumers, warehouses remain full as there is more supply than demand. Thus, while we are fixated on ownership, and while Americana is defined by its principles of ownership, corporations love an empty warehouse.

The formula is simple. We consume, they provide; and in their provisions corporation must make appropriations for what they perceive as a “need” in the general population. They, of course, are in the business of fulfilling needs, at least perceived needs.

What has any of this to do with freedom? If someone were to ask you, with all seriousness, “What’s freedom?” how would you respond? What would you say? What could you say? I’d venture to guess that more than half of the population would suggest that freedom is inextricably bound with an ability to choose. Choice is what determines freedom.

Such a response, in fact, is expected, maybe even conditioned. On this notion, then, to assert the concept of freedom is to equally invoke the idea of choice. For example, I can choose to go to my political science class or I can choose to ditch class and hangout with my friends.

Article Author: Jason J. Campbell

My name is Dr. Jason J. Campbell. I am an educator and a blogger. I am currently an Assistant Professor of Conflict Resolution and Philosophy at Nova Southeastern University. I hope you enjoy my articles.

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