The McDonaldization of Society

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The McDonaldization of Society

        The McDonaldization of society may sound somewhat misleading but the term actually refers to the rationalization of society. The use of the word “McDonaldization” just simply indicates that the fast food restaurant is one of many great examples of rationality. Ritzer discusses five dimensions that characterize rationality or a rationalized society: efficiency, predictability, calculability, the use and preference of non-human technology, and the control over uncertainty. The five characteristics can be noticed in various aspects of society which exemplifies the extent that rationality affects our society and societies worldwide. In this paper I will summarize Ritzer’s discussion of these five characteristics and give possible examples of each dimension.

        First, efficiency refers to the most efficient or best means to an end. Ritzer uses the fast food restaurant as an example of the best means to obtain a meal, instead of actually preparing food at home. Individuals no longer have to go out to the supermarket, buy food and bring it home, prepare it over a hot stove, and let’s not forget the tedious task of hand-washing the dishes. To avoid all these steps people can just drive down the street and pick up their meals from a fast food restaurant. Today, the inside-lines can even be avoidable with the addition of the drive through window. There are many advantages to the fast food restaurant, but as Ritzer explains there are also “irrationalities of rationality.” In the example of the fast food restaurant, to prepare meals as cheaply, quickly, and easily as possible the health of individuals eating such foods is quite often sacrificed. America has experienced an increase in the average weight of its citizens. More children of suffering from obesity at younger ages, the occurrence of high blood pressure and high cholesterol levels are also increasing. Ritzer does not give any recommendations for reducing this particular problem of rationalization, but he does point out that certain sacrifices are made to ensure efficiency.

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        Predictability is a second dimension of rationalization. People in rational societies prefer to avoid surprises when they enter a particular situation. Discipline, routine, and systemization are just a few things that ensure predictability. This summer I volunteered to canvass for environmental organizations. Canvassing refers to the process of going door-to-door to raise money for some cause. People who canvass are trained to do the exact same routine with each neighborhood they visit. Speeches, gestures, and even the tone of your voice follow a specific pre-planned manner. It’s almost as if you become a programmed robot with a list of homes ...

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