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.

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