Celebrity Obssession

Paper Summary:

The paper discusses the effect of celebrities such as O.J. Simpson and Paris Hilton on American culture, which illustrates the extent to which virtually anyone who is famous even for negative behavior can inspire emulation. The paper explains the psychology behind this emulation and discusses how celebrities are generally negative role models. The paper therefore concludes that although there may be reason to admire celebrities for their specific accomplishments, the blind admiration of fame without regard to personal shortcomings is damaging, especially to young people still in the process of formulating their personal values.

Outline:
Introduction
The Psychology of Celebrity Emulation and Its Detrimental Effect on Society
Celebrities Tend to Make Bad Role Models
Conclusion

From the Paper:

"According to news reports at the time, when O.J. Simpson was on trial for murdering his ex-wife and Ron Goldman in 1995, national sales of white Ford Broncos, Bruno Magli shoes, and white Akita dogs all increased dramatically. In fact, Bruno Magli sales of the particular model skyrocketed as a result of the unexpected publicity of the association with Simpson, and pet stores reported that people asked for "O.J. dogs" instead of referring to the Akita by name. Such is the power of celebrity in American culture."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Gerrig, R.J., Zimbardo, R.G. (2003) Psychology and Life 18th Ed. New Jersey: Prentice Hall.
• Henslin, J.M. (2002) Essentials of Sociology: A Down-to-Earth Approach. Boston: Allyn and Bacon
• Macionis, J.J. (2003) Sociology 9th Ed. New Jersey: Prentice Hall.

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