Celebrity Worship: A Natural Human Trait

           Popular culture places a great deal of emphasis on celebrity worship. Whether it is a movie star, an athlete, or simply a Kardashian, there is no denying that there is something that draws society to consume every juicy little piece of gossip about these celebrities. Often this yearning and devotion takes on religious proportions. Laderman describes this phenomenon as a “rather secular version of more authentic religious devotional practices, a displacement of a deep human need onto stars rather than saints” (76). Considering how widespread celebrity culture is, it seems there is some sort of inherent aspect of human nature that is conducive to following celebrities.

            While the age of social media and the 24-hour news cycle has certainly heightened the level of celebrity worship, it is by no means a modern invention.  In past ages without the big screen or Twitter, people turned to other celebrities to follow. Royalty and monarchs were a sort of celebrity, whose social circles and dress set trends throughout society. For example, before Queen Victoria wedding dresses were often colorful and made from heavy materials. However, after she made the unusual choice of wearing a white gown for her 1840 wedding, it quickly caught on and is still the norm to this day (Flock). Considering both the modern and historical patterns of celebrity worship, it becomes evident that this practice is truly ingrained in human nature. Why is this?

            Firstly, there could be evolutionary reasons for this practice. Humans are social animals with important social hierarchies, and being aware what people of high status are doing helps you navigate this hierarchy. Even further, by observing and replicating the behaviors of the elite, it might elevate your own social status. From a more psychological approach, it could simply serve as an escape from the mundane of everyday life. The fact is most people fall into daily routines that often become tedious or dull. Modern celebrities have flings, lavish parties, and drama. It’s a social life most of us don’t have, and by reading the tabloids and following our favorite star, they serve as vessel to vicariously live through.

Outside Source: 

Flock, Elizabeth. "Queen Victoria was the first to get married in white", Washington Post. 29 April,        2011. http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/royal-wedding-watch/post/queen-victoria-was-the-        

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