Why Do We Like to “Appear” Rebellious?
Author: DavidJones // Category: Ethics, Pop Culture, Youth Culture
I just read about a new product on the market. It’s called “Blow.” It looks like cocaine, it’s packaged like cocaine, and in some ways it has the effects of cocaine. What is it? A new energy drink…or at least that’s what they say. The mix is sold in a small vial and is measured in grams. A small mirror is actually included in the package so buyers can grind the mix down to a powder before pouring it into a water bottle. The caffeine content is equivalent to 2 Red Bulls and 3 cups of coffee.
Hearing about that brought this question to my mind: Why is our culture so obsessed with “imitating” things that seem taboo?
For instance, when you were a kid did you ever buy candy cigarettes? If you had them, what’s the first thing you did? I bet it wasn’t throw them in your mouth and chew them up. I bet you put the stick between your fingers and pretended to smoke.
Ever known anyone who bought root beer in bottles because it resembled real beer bottles? It’s almost like that bottle of IBC gave them credibility (in their own eyes) and made them appear rebellious and cool.
Whether it’s snorting Smarties, drinking “Blow,” smoking candy cigarettes, saying words that “sound” like cuss words, or trying to appear “cool” to others buy drinking root beer out of a bottle, our culture really seems to enjoy dabbling in the thought of rebellion without completely crossing that fence.
Any ideas why? Your comments are welcome!
(Thanks to nbclosangeles.com for info)