A Response to George Ritzer’s Theory of Mcdonaldization

The term McDonaldization is a term that was created by George Ritzer. This theory is based on the idea that our society is becoming more and more based on one of the biggest industries in the United States today, the fast-food industry. This theory is represented by four main elements: efficiency, predictability, calculability, and control.

Efficiency which is one of the first components of this theory is one of the most dominant of the 4. It represents discovering the most sufficient method to reaching a goal or fulfilling a task. The word efficiency to George Ritzer means achieving the highest status or largest quantity in the smallest amount of time. People who live in today’s society are often busy and rushing all the time. The need for immediate satisfaction is also a trait we see among people in society. This is seen in fast-food restaurants by methods to ultimately save time. We see tasks that are broken up into simpler and more time saving tasks that many employees can do to accelerate the process. In addition, unlike sit-down restaurants where you have a waiter/waitress, fast-food restaurants do not supply you with your drinks, condiments, utensils at the counter, to save time they have stations where you can do it yourself.

Predictability is another component of the McDonaldization theory. Predictability is a standardization of what we consume and how we are served. It is based off the costumers yearning to have the same experiences everywhere they go. In today’s society, we do not like change. We have a fear of trying something new and different. Recycling things we know and enjoy and the things that work best for us makes it attainable. For example, all McDonalds, no matter where you are, have pretty much the same menu and the same set up. It is easy to go to a restaurant where you are familiar with the menu and how the restaurant works. It is comforting to know that even on a business trip or road trip, there are fast food places (like McDonalds) that you are accustomed to.

Another component of the McDonaldization theory is Calculability. Calculability is the idea that quantity and time management is comparable to true quality. This can be more understandable in the concept of a lot of food for a very affordable price seems more appealing and logical than paying for more healthy and better tasting food. In a society where saving your money is a priority, it makes sense why we find more for less more attractive.

Finally, rational action is the idea that the actions are executed for the result and disregard any consequences and means. The idea of Rational Action is seen in George Ritzer’s element of control, where old methods are replaced with more practical and convenient methods. Examples of this are very prevalent in today’s society as everything is now technology based. By the use of technology and machinery instead of human labor, not only does it speed up the processing time, but it also allows for things to be done the same every single time.

I agree with George Ritzer’s theory of McDonaldization. Ritzer believes that there are many characteristics of the McDonaldization theory that are beneficial to society but the convenience of it will eventually take of the world. I think we should all balance ideas of the McDonaldization theory as well as traditional ways to be able to benefit from our society rather than avoid the negative aspects in the name of efficiency.