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Essay / A Response to George Ritzer's McDonaldization Theory
The term McDonaldization is a term created by George Ritzer. This theory is based on the idea that our society increasingly relies on one of the largest industries in the United States today, the fast food industry. This theory is represented by four main elements: efficiency, predictability, calculability and control. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why violent video games should not be banned”? Get an original essay The effectiveness which is one of the first components of this theory is one of the most dominant of the 4. It represents the discovery of the most sufficient method to achieve an objective or accomplish a task. For George Ritzer, the word efficiency means achieving the highest status or the greatest quantity in the smallest amount of time. People living in today's society are often busy and in a hurry all the time. The need for immediate gratification is also a trait we see among people in society. This is seen in fast food restaurants through methods that ultimately save time. We see tasks broken down into simpler, more time-saving tasks that many employees can complete to speed up the process. Additionally, unlike sit-down restaurants where you have a waiter/waitress, fast-food restaurants do not provide you with your drinks, condiments, utensils at the counter, to save time they have stations where you can do it yourself. another component of the McDonaldization theory. Predictability is a standardization of what we consume and how we are served. It is based on customers' desire to have the same experiences wherever they go. In today's society we don't like change. We are afraid to try something new and different. Recycling the things we know and love and the things that suit us best makes this goal achievable. For example, every McDonald's no matter where you are has pretty much the same menu and layout. It's easy to go to a restaurant where you know the menu and how it works. It's comforting to know that even on a business trip or road trip, there are fast food places (like McDonalds) that you are accustomed to. Another element of the McDonaldization theory is calculability. Computability is the idea that managing quantity and time is comparable to true quality. This may be more understandable as the concept of lots of food at a very affordable price seems more appealing and logical than paying for healthier and tastier foods. In a society where saving money is a priority, it makes sense that we find more attractive for less. Finally, rational action is the idea that actions are performed for the result and do not consider consequences and means. The idea of rational action is found in George Ritzer's Element of Control, where old methods are replaced by more practical and convenient methods. Examples are very common in today's society, where everything now relies on technology. By using technology and machines instead of human labor, not only does it speed up processing time, but it also allows things to be done the same way every time. Keep in mind: this is just a sample. Get a custom template. article now from our expert writers.Get a custom essayI agree with George Ritzer's theory of McDonaldization. Ritzer believes that many characteristics..