Tech's Influence on Nacirema: Body Rituals and Materialism

The Nacirema culture, known for its elaborate body rituals and emphasis on materialism, has been affected by the technological advancements of the digital age. With the rise of the internet and social media, the Nacirema culture’s practices have been impacted in both positive and negative ways.

Analysis of the Positive consequences of Technology on the Nacirema Culture’s Practices

On the one hand, technology has made it easier for individuals to access information and resources related to body rituals and materialism. For example, individuals can now easily research and purchase beauty products, supplements, and fitness equipment that are marketed as solutions to enhance physical appearance. They also have access to a wide range of tutorials, videos, and apps that teach them how to perform rituals and use the products. Additionally, Social media platforms have become the new way of communication and the way Nacirema individuals express themselves, and it has helped them in sharing and learning about new beauty trends and rituals.

Furthermore, technology has also led to the commodification of body rituals and beauty. Many companies now offer online beauty and fitness services, and the proliferation of beauty and fitness apps that can be used to track and monitor progress, which has led to the commodification of body rituals. This commodification has also led to the creation of virtual and augmented reality that enhances the virtual experience of beauty rituals that are not accessible in the physical world, and this could change the way people perceive beauty rituals.

Negative Impact of Nacirema Culture in Social Media on Body Image and Self-esteem

On the other hand, technology has also led to the amplification of the Nacirema culture’s obsession with beauty standards and materialism. Social media platforms are flooded with images of idealized beauty, and individuals are constantly bombarded with messages promoting a certain standard of beauty, which can lead to the development of negative body image and self-esteem issues. Additionally, the constant access to material goods through e-commerce and online shopping has intensified the culture’s materialistic tendencies.

The negative impact of the Nacirema culture in social media is particularly notable in how it influences body image and self-esteem. The constant exposure to images of idealized beauty on social media can lead to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem, particularly for individuals who do not conform to the cultural norm. Social media has also led to the creation of beauty and fitness influencers, who are often paid to promote products and services, which can contribute to the commodification of beauty and body rituals.

Social media has also led to the normalization of edited and filtered images, which can create unrealistic standards of beauty and contribute to body dissatisfaction. This constant exposure to unrealistic images can also lead to individuals engaging in unhealthy behaviors to achieve these standards, such as disordered eating, excessive exercise, and the use of cosmetic procedures.

Moreover, Social media has also led to the creation of online communities that promote harmful beauty rituals and practices, such as skin lightening, which can have negative health consequences and perpetuate harmful societal norms. It is important for individuals to be critical of the information they consume on social media and to be aware of the ways in which it may be influencing their perceptions of beauty and their own self-worth.

In conclusion, technology has had a significant impact on the Nacirema culture’s practices of body rituals and materialism. While it has provided individuals with easier access to information and resources, it has also amplified the culture’s obsession with beauty standards and materialism.