Celebrity Status

Abstract

Max Weber's fragmentary writings on social status suggest that differentiation on this basis should disappear as capitalism develops. However, many of Weber's examples of status refer to the United States, which Weber held to be the epitome of capitalist development. Weber hints at a second form of status, one generated by capitalism, which might reconcile this contradiction, and later theorists emphasize the continuing importance of status hierarchies. This article argues that such theories have missed one of the most important forms of contemporary status: celebrity. Celebrity is an omnipresent feature of contemporary society, blazing lasting impressions in the memories of all who cross its path. In keeping with Weber's conception of status, celebrity has come to dominate status "honor," generate enormous economic benefits, and lay claim to certain legal privileges. Compared with other types of status, however, celebrity is status on speed. It confers honor in days, not generations; it decays over time, rather than accumulating; and it demands a constant supply of new recruits, rather than erecting barriers to entry.

The celebritization of society and culture: Understanding the structural dynamics of celebrity culture

“…The same applies to celebrities, who are generally perceived as products of capitalism (e.g., Kurzman, et al, 2007;Marshall, 1997). Still, there is disagreement regarding what exactly is commodified in the case of celebrities.…”

The production and consumption activities relating to the celebrity artist

“…The emergence of the new status system of celebrity shaped by capitalism, mass media and being known (Kurzman et al 2007) conflicts with Weber's social status theory (Weber 1978(Weber /1921 which is grounded in the belief that status systems are in decline. However, Weber focused on an interpretation based on consumption patterns rather than economic, production based perspectives.…”

Political celebrity and the Olympic movement: exploring the charismatic authority of IOC presidents

“…Similarly, Kurzman et al (2007), suggest that contemporary celebrity contradicts Weber's analysis of status because Weber projected a downward trajectory of status groups and the slow 'inbreeding' of genealogical status over subsequent generations. Indeed, if Weber is read in a strictly evolutionary or deterministic manner, then the specific relevance of charisma to political celebrity becomes increasingly tenuous and fades over time as social relations become more diffuse and multifaceted.…”