Modern Cultural Myths
Write 200-300 words response to the prompt below. Be thoughtful and honest. I’m genuinely interested in learning from you and about you in our Discussion Forums.
Prompt:
Choose one of the following pages by Roland Barthes—“Toys,” “Steak and Chips,” “The Brain of Einstein,” or “The New Citroën.” Summarize Barthes’ argument in your own words, then apply it to a contemporary object, product, or trend you think functions as a modern myth.
You might choose something like an phone ad, a tie tok trend, a fast food item, or a fashion brand. Be creative and critical!
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Modern Cultural Myths
In your post (250–300 words):
- Identify the Barthes and summarize its central myth.
- Connect it to a contemporary example, explaining what values or ideologies it “naturalizes.”
- Use at least one direct quote from Barthes to support your interpretation.
Summary of Roland Barthes’ “Toys”
In “Toys”, Roland Barthes argues that modern toys are designed not for open-ended play. Designed to reproduce the values and structures of adult society. French toys, he observes, are miniature representations of the adult world. They are used to prepare children to accept societal roles rather than imagine alternatives. He writes, “All the toys one commonly sees are essentially a microcosm of the adult world,” meaning that these toys function as tools of cultural conditioning. Instead of promoting imagination, they reinforce conformity by encouraging children to mimic adult behaviors.
Contemporary Application: Influencer Starter Kits
A modern parallel to Barthes’ argument can be found in the growing trend of influencer “starter kits” for young girls. These often include pretend makeup, ring lights, toy smartphones, and other props that simulate the tools of social media influencers. These toys are more than innocent playthings—they subtly teach children, particularly girls, that personal appearance, self-promotion, and curated online presence are critical to identity and social value.
Like the toys Barthes critiques, influencer kits do not foster independent creation but instead promote imitation. They naturalize the ideology that success, especially for women, comes from visibility and attractiveness on digital platforms.
