A Level Sociology OCR Practice Exam

According to postmodernist views, why have individuals become more consumer-oriented?

1. Due to economic collapses

2. Because of social isolation

3. As a result of technological advancements

4. With respect to changing production methods

The correct answer is: As a result of technological advancements

The correct choice highlights the significant impact of technological advancements on the shift towards a more consumer-oriented society. Postmodernist thinkers argue that technology, particularly in the realms of communication and information, has transformed how individuals interact with the world and each other. The rise of the internet, social media, and online shopping has not only increased access to a wide variety of goods and services but has also shifted cultural norms around consumption. Individuals are now more connected than ever, able to share experiences and recommendations instantly across vast networks, which reinforces consumer behavior. Moreover, technology enables consumers to make choices that reflect their identities, desires, and lifestyles, cultivating a sense of individuality through consumption. In this context, consumption becomes more than just a means of fulfilling needs; it is also a way to express self-identity and personal values, a central theme in postmodern thought. Other options, while they may have some relevance, do not capture the full impact of technology on consumer orientation as effectively as the selected choice. Economic collapses might lead to changes in consumer behavior, but they do not inherently promote a consumer-oriented mindset. Social isolation may result in some individuals turning to consumption for fulfillment, yet it is not a primary driver of the overall trend. Changing production methods might