In Chapter 2, Schlosser writes about the many comparisons between the founder of McDonald's, Ray Kroc, and the founder of Disney, Walt Disney. They even, in fact, knew each other growing up. Schlosser writes that both men were masterful at sales, and shared a love of conservative politics (though, while Disney criticized government intervention, he relied on federal money to save his studio in the 1940s) and technology.
Ray Kroc incorporated Disney's emphasis on showmanship and marketing into his campaign to promote McDonald's, and the important point that Schlosser is making is that fast food is as much about salesmanship, toys, and entertainment as it is about the food (or maybe even more so). McDonald's has marketed itself directly to children through television commercials and "playlands," as well as cartoons, sweepstakes, and other means. Schlosser presents this information to emphasize that fast food is more than just food; its appeal also comes from the show and the attractions that the restaurants provide to children and their families.
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