Neoliberal commodification is a process whereby human beings, including their identities and experiences, are transformed into economic entities. This transformation has far-reaching effects on society, including the way people interact with each other sexually and romantically. In this article, I will explore how neoliberal commodification impacts erotic identity and how it can be used to generate profit for individuals and businesses alike.
Neoliberalism is an economic theory that emphasizes free market capitalism and individual responsibility. It promotes competition and the privatization of public services, and discourages government intervention in the economy. Neoliberalism also encourages the commodification of everything, including human beings themselves.
One example of neoliberal commodification is the emergence of online dating apps like Tinder and Bumble. These apps allow users to connect with potential partners based on their appearance and personality traits, often reducing them to objects that can be swiped left or right. The app developers then sell user data to advertisers who target specific demographics, generating revenue from these transactions.
Another form of neoliberal commodification is the growth of the pornography industry. Pornographic films and images are produced and consumed as products, with performers becoming commodities themselves. This commodification of sexuality has led to the objectification of women's bodies, which can be exploited by men seeking financial gain through prostitution or human trafficking.
Neoliberalism has also led to the creation of "sexual surrogacy" services, where people pay others to provide intimate physical contact. This practice commodifies human touch and emotional connection, turning it into a transactional experience.
Neoliberalism has transformed erotic identity into a socially and economically exploitable asset, creating new markets for consumer goods and services related to sex and romance. While this transformation may generate profit for individuals and businesses, it also devalues intimacy and perpetuates harmful stereotypes about gender roles and sexuality. It is important to critically examine how we engage in sexual relationships and consider alternative ways of interacting with each other that do not rely on economic gain.
How does neoliberal commodification transform erotic identity into a socially and economically exploitable asset?
Neoliberal commodification has transformed erotic identity into a socially and economically exploitable asset by creating a culture that objectifies and sexualizes people based on their appearance and desirability, often leading to the commoditization of intimacy and sex itself.