9267d13e-c16f-11e6-9578-0054287507db_story.html

12/20/2016

In this Washington Post op-ed, the author discusses how Starbucks has become a symbol of elitism and snobbery in our society. The author argues that Starbucks has successfully tapped into people's desire for status and exclusivity by offering expensive and pretentious drinks. The article examines the phenomenon of Starbucks becoming a status symbol and critiques the company for its role in perpetuating a culture of consumerism and class divisions. It suggests that Starbucks' success may be indicative of larger societal issues surrounding wealth and image. Ultimately, the author questions whether Starbucks truly enhances our economic ecosystem or simply contributes to a culture of snobbery.

cultural analysis ꞏ socioeconomic factors ꞏ starbucks ꞏ brand loyalty ꞏ social status ꞏ marketing ꞏ societal values ꞏ class distinctions ꞏ globalization ꞏ customer experience ꞏ capitalism ꞏ consumerism ꞏ social commentary ꞏ coffee culture ꞏ retail industry ꞏ societal trends ꞏ brand image ꞏ corporate culture ꞏ consumer behavior ꞏ branding ꞏ luxury brands ꞏ cultural critique ꞏ opinion piece ꞏ popular culture ꞏ snobbery ꞏ social rituals ꞏ urban culture ꞏ lifestyle ꞏ social hierarchy ꞏ economic ecosystem