Leila Alabed Week 10 - Lights, Camera, Politics

When discussing which group has the most power in American society, many look to politicians, who create laws, control budgets, and shape the government in various ways. While politicians arguably have some of the greatest influence on America, they are not the only ones responsible for shaping public opinions. Celebrities, having extensive platforms, also play a crucial role in American politics and general culture as a whole. But, why is this?


Celebrities often utilize their massive social platforms to call attention to societal, environmental, and political issues alike. Oftentimes, celebrity opinions go viral, resulting in an even larger audience reach across all platforms. The rapid spread of influence from our favorite celebrities can make us question our own values and opinions. For example, if Zendaya were to post about the environmental crisis, it might inspire fans of hers to also take on activist roles regarding the environment.



Additionally, celebrities have the power to impact public opinion through their significant influence. Celebrity opinions on political or societal issues can inspire larger debates and challenge how others think. When celebrities speak out against issues, it can influence the public’s perception of these matters which pressures politicians to act. 


Another way celebrities influence political power is through financial contributions. Celebrities often donate large amounts of money to advocacy groups and political campaigns. This financial support can help fund campaigns and in turn allow them to reach more voters, thus shaping the narrative. 


Overall, through their endorsements, activism, and financial support, celebrities have the power to influence public opinion and indirectly create societal change in America.   

Comments

  1. Jacob WangFebruary 5, 2025 at 6:50 PM

    Hi Leila. I agree that people often forget the role of celebrities in America. Coincidentally, while preparing for today's synthesis essay, I remembered that Erika Lee specifically discussed how one of the best ways to prevent xenophobia is to get highly influential and famous figures to take a clear stance against it. But also, I find that the ones with the ability to influence how people feel about topics are also not usually qualified to do so. Similarly to my own blog, famous people don't tend to get famous for being awesome people. This is problematic because just as much as they can create good societal change, they can mislead people or exploit their influence for selfish benefit.

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  2. Emerly LeeFebruary 5, 2025 at 8:30 PM

    Hey Leila! Your blog brings up an often overlooked reality that celebrities hold massive influence over the masses and it can be deceiving at times. For one during the COVID-19 pandemic many celebrities advocated everyone to vote and alluded their fans to voting blue as the “morally correct” option. I don’t believe it was a wrong option, but rather people oftentimes can not tell the difference between right from wrong when it comes to being coerced by their favorite celebrities or even a group of their favorite celebrities. One point you brought up that I thought was unique is the fact that celebrities often not only utilize their influence, but also their money. Money is the best form of power because it can give access to opportunities that others may not have. While a far-fetched example, it's kind of like looking at someone who receives a dollar at a candy store versus someone who receives ten dollars. The person with a dollar can probably afford to buy one or two things, but the person with ten fold that amount can purchase much more. Your article was really insightful and goes to show the soft power many celebrities have without being in direct power.

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  3. Kaden KhauFebruary 5, 2025 at 9:24 PM

    Hi Leila! Your blog brings up a very interesting take on what kind of power celebrities have. I agree with your opinion on how celebrities influence us and what kind of power they have on shaping today's society. I also like how you mentioned that their role is often forgotten in America. But even though they might have substantial power on influencing major events in our lives, they are often not qualified to do so and might have a unknowledgeable take on the topic. And people also often follow them just because they popular and this could lead to mislead judgement on serious topics which could cause massive turmoil between. Overall, I think your blog is a comprehensive overview on the power celebrities have in America.

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