Open Access. Powered by Scholars. Published by Universities.®
Articles 1 - 1 of 1
Full-Text Articles in Sociology of Culture
The Power Of The Influencer: Old Gods, Rejected Elites, And Secular Idols, Laura Brenalvirez
The Power Of The Influencer: Old Gods, Rejected Elites, And Secular Idols, Laura Brenalvirez
CMC Senior Theses
This thesis explores the phenomena of influencers in America, and what makes their power distinct from institutional forms of authority. As we are disillusioned by the establishment, we turn to influencers, since we have greater exercise of autonomy and agency in our deference. Our parasocial relationships demonstrate an anti-elitist desire to feel truly represented by our authorities. I aim to open scholarship about celebrities through a more charitable lens than many condescending takes.