Politics of Fame

Cultural historian Eric Burns explores the evolution of celebrity and questions the status of fame in the twenty-first century in his book "The Politics of Fame". He examines the lives and afterlives of America's most beloved celebrities, raising important questions about celebrity worship and the state of the nation.

Format: Hardback
Length: 216 pages
Publication date: 30 December 2018
Publisher: Rutgers University Press

Celebrities, who emerge from diverse realms such as film, music, politics, and sports, hold a unique place in our society. While their talent may be equal to that of their peers, what sets them apart and elevates them to household names is a complex question. Is it merely a matter of charisma, or does fame hinge more on the collective fantasies of fans than on the actual accomplishments of celebrities? To explore these intriguing questions, cultural historian Eric Burns delves into the biographies of some of the most iconic figures in American history. From Benjamin Franklin to Fanny Kemble, Elvis Presley to Gene Tierney, and Michael Jordan to Oprah Winfrey, Burns examines the evolution of celebrity throughout different eras.

In his book, "The Politics of Fame," Burns challenges the very status of fame in the twenty-first century, a time when thousands of minor celebrities have briefly basked in the spotlight. He questions the extent to which fame is truly valued and the implications it holds for our society. Through his case studies, Burns offers a provocative and entertaining exploration of the lives and afterlives of America's most beloved celebrities, as well as the profound devotion they inspire.

One of the central themes of "The Politics of Fame" is the power of celebrity worship. By examining the intense devotion of fans to these figures, Burns sheds light on the psychological and cultural factors that drive this worship. He explores how celebrities become symbols of identity and aspiration, and how their image is manipulated and marketed to the public.

Burns also raises important questions about the role of celebrities in shaping public opinion and influencing societal values. He examines how celebrities use their platform to advocate for social justice, raise awareness about important issues, and shape public discourse. However, he also questions the extent to which celebrities are responsible for the problems they seek to address, and whether their influence is truly positive or negative.

In addition to its exploration of celebrity worship, "The Politics of Fame" also offers a critical analysis of the media and the entertainment industry. Burns questions the ways in which celebrities are portrayed and marketed, and how this portrayal affects their public image and the way they are perceived by the general public. He explores the ethical concerns surrounding the use of celebrities in advertising and the ways in which their image is manipulated to sell products and promote entertainment.

Overall, "The Politics of Fame" is a thought-provoking and engaging book that offers a comprehensive examination of the complex relationship between celebrities, fame, and society. It raises important questions about the value of celebrity, the role of the media in shaping public opinion, and the impact of celebrity worship on individuals and society as a whole. Whether you are a fan of celebrities or an interested observer of popular culture, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the dynamics of fame in the twenty-first century.

Weight: 412g
Dimension: 218 x 133 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781978800618