A new young generation of Americans was breaking away from the habits of its parents and defining itself by its music. There was nothing the parents could do: This generation was armed with both money and new inexpensive appliances with which to listen to it (P. 473).The consuming class of teenagers, such a part of popular culture today, first came of age in the mid 1950s. Close to 60 years later teens are buying much more than music. Business advertises for teen dollars in the computer hardware and software, movies, clothes, fast food, cell phone markets as well.
Compare this situation to my grandparents' adolescence. Any money made by the teen was given to the family fund.
- So are we teaching teens the value of money or enjoyment of cheap thrills of consumer culture?
- The value of helping out one's family and community or the ephemeral pleasure of spending on oneself?
- Deferred or immediate gratification?
- The value of a good reputation or the cost of an Ipod?
What do you think?
