Commodifying: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from 'commodity,' which means a basic good used in commerce, and it has origins in the Latin word 'commoditas,' meaning convenience or advantage.
• It first appeared in the English language in the mid-20th century as the act of treating an item or idea as a product.

Cultural Impacts

• In today's society, we often commodify aspects of life like art, culture, and even personal relationships, which can lead to debates about their worth.
• Commodifying can create accessibility, but it can also strip original meaning and cultural significance from the products.

Economics

• It's a key concept in capitalism, where the movement of goods and services is prioritized, shaping how resources are allocated.
• The rise of the digital economy has accelerated the commodification of various services, such as streaming music and online content.

Psychology

• When we commodify experiences, it can affect our emotional connections to them, sometimes making us feel less satisfied.
• Studies show that viewing relationships or experiences as commodities can lead to a decrease in overall happiness.

Literature

• In literature, commodifying themes often reveal conflicts between economic interests and human values, as seen in works like 'The Grapes of Wrath' and 'Brave New World.'
• Many authors critique commodification as they explore how important human elements are reduced to mere transactions.