OUTlet

Many of us have been to the Carlsbad Premium Outlet, a place where elitism and communal egalitarianism blend well together. Though, in our readings, by Jack Solomon, he suggests that America is contradictory; both being "communally egalitarian" and "competitive elitist". (525) I feel that the outlet allows both elitism and communal egalitarianism to flow well with one another. The outlet features brand name stores such as: Banana Republic, Barneys New York, Juicy Couture, and Polo Ralph Lauren, just to list a few. These brand names stores suggest that the outlet caters to elitists, but taking a closer look at random vehicles in the parking lot suggest otherwise. Comparing vehicles that were $30,000 or less with vehicles that were $30,001or more we see a pattern that suggest that shoppers at the outlet may not be as elite as these brand name stores would suggest. As we can see, a place such as the outlet, presents us with the thought that elitism and communal egalitarianism may be a great match!

Sources:
Jack Solomon. "Masters of Desire: The Culture of American Advertising." Signs of Life in the USA. 6th ed. Boston: Bedford/St. Martin's, 2009. 525-525. Print