Neoliberalism is an economic system characterized by free market capitalism, deregulation, privatization, and minimal government intervention. It promotes consumerism, individualism, and personal responsibility. Neoliberalism affects every aspect of society, including sexuality and gender roles. One way it has done this is by commodifying desire and turning intimacy into a product that can be bought and sold. This essay will explore how neoliberal culture reshapes erotic identity through the commodification of authenticity, intimacy, and desirability.
Commodification of Desire
The commodification of desire occurs when intimate experiences are turned into products to be consumed. In neoliberal societies, everything is up for sale, and sex is no exception. The commodification of desire leads to the creation of a new market where people can purchase erotic experiences instead of creating them themselves. This shift in values makes it harder for individuals to form meaningful connections based on mutual respect and trust because they have been conditioned to view others as objects to consume rather than partners in shared pleasure. The commodification of desire also perpetuates social inequality since those who can afford to pay more get better quality services or greater access to certain types of partners.
Authenticity
Neoliberal culture places a high value on authenticity, which means being true to oneself and one's beliefs.
This concept is often used as a tool to promote consumption. Companies sell products that claim to help individuals express their authentic selves, even if those products don't align with their actual values.
Companies may sell clothing or makeup designed to appeal to specific genders or identities without considering whether those items fit an individual's lifestyle or personal style. Neoliberalism has created a culture where authenticity is seen as something that can be bought and sold, leading many people to question their own sense of self-worth and identity.
Intimacy
Intimacy refers to the closeness and emotional connection between two people. In neoliberal culture, intimacy is often replaced by transactional relationships where people use each other for sexual gratification without forming any real emotional bonds. This can lead to feelings of isolation, loneliness, and confusion about what constitutes healthy relationships.
Some individuals may seek out intimacy through paid sex work, further devaluing genuine intimacy. The commodification of intimacy creates a market where people are viewed as objects to consume rather than equals in a relationship.
Desirability
Desirability refers to how attractive someone is perceived by others based on physical appearance or social status. In neoliberal cultures, desirability is often equated with beauty, wealth, and power. People who do not meet these standards may feel inferior and unworthy of love or respect. This creates a hierarchy where certain groups are valued more than others, leading to discrimination and inequality. Neoliberal culture also promotes the idea that anyone can be desirable if they purchase the right products or services, which reinforces the belief that looks and wealth are the only things that matter.
Neoliberal culture reshapes erotic identity through the commodification of desire, authenticity, intimacy, and desirability. It turns sexual experiences into products, making it harder for individuals to form meaningful connections based on mutual respect and trust. Neoliberalism also creates an environment where people struggle to define themselves authentically and value emotional closeness over transactional relationships.
It perpetuates harmful stereotypes about beauty, wealth, and status, creating a hierarchy where some people are seen as more desirable than others. By understanding how neoliberalism impacts our sexual identities, we can work towards building healthier, more equitable relationships founded on genuine connection and mutual respect.
How does neoliberal culture reshape erotic identity through the commodification of authenticity, intimacy, and desirability?
Neoliberalism is an economic system that emphasizes individual freedom and responsibility, private ownership of property, minimal government intervention in markets, and free trade between nations. The commodification of erotic identity has become increasingly prevalent in recent years, with many people turning to social media platforms such as Instagram and OnlyFans to sell their sexual services for monetary gain.