Why Do We Worship Celebrities?
Understanding the Psychology of Fame
Introduction to Celebrity Worship
Let's explore the reasons behind society's fascination with celebrities and the psychological factors that contribute to the worship of famous individuals. We'll delve into the influence of media, social status, and the desire for connection that drives celebrity culture.
Quote of the Day
"A celebrity is someone who works hard all his life to become well known, then wears dark glasses to avoid being recognized." — Fred Allen
What does this quote suggest about the nature of fame and the relationship between celebrities and the public?
The Role of Media in Celebrity Worship - Reading Activity (Part 1)
Media plays a crucial role in creating and sustaining celebrity culture. Through constant coverage and glorification, celebrities are often put on a pedestal, seen as perfect or infallible figures. This creates a false sense of intimacy with the public, making us feel as though we know these celebrities personally, which fuels our fascination and admiration. However, this relationship can lead to disappointment when these figures let us down.
The Role of Media in Celebrity Worship - Reading Activity (Part 2)
Fans who wrap their identity up in a celebrity can feel personally affected by any negative news or a juicy piece of gossip. When celebrities fail to meet expectations, it can lead to feelings of betrayal or disillusionment, making fans question their own self-worth. This dynamic is complex and often unhealthy, highlighting the deep psychological impact of celebrity worship on both the individual and society.
Key Vocabulary
Put Someone on a Pedestal
Definition: To treat someone as if they are perfect or better than everyone else.
Example: Fans often put celebrities on a pedestal, believing they can do no wrong.
Juicy Piece of Gossip
Definition: Interesting or scandalous information about someone.
Example: The tabloids are full of juicy pieces of gossip about celebrities.
Key Vocabulary
Let Someone Down
Definition: To disappoint someone by failing to meet their expectations.
Example: Celebrities often let their fans down when they fail to live up to their public image.
Wrap Your Identity Up
Definition: To strongly associate your sense of self with someone or something else.
Example: Some people wrap their identity up in a celebrity, feeling personally attacked if the celebrity is criticized.
False Sense of Intimacy
Definition: The illusion that you know a celebrity personally due to frequent exposure through media.
Example: The constant coverage of celebrities creates a false sense of intimacy, making fans feel as though they have a personal connection with them.
Introducing the Video
Next, we will watch a video that explores the psychology behind why we worship celebrities and the societal impacts of this phenomenon. As you watch, think about how the key vocabulary we've discussed applies to the issues raised in the video.
The video we'll be watching is titled "The Problem with Celebrity Worship".
You can access the video here: Watch the Video
Let's Watch!
Key Points from the Video
Not Only Teenagers
The video explains how celebrity worship extends beyond teenagers, affecting adults who idolize sports stars, politicians, and more.
Identity and Celebrity Worship
People often make celebrities a part of their identity, feeling personally attacked when the celebrity is criticized.
Disillusionment
When celebrities let people down, it can cause deep disappointment, making fans realize the dangers of putting someone on a pedestal.
Post-Video Discussion
Engaging Dialogue
Question 1: Why do you think people are so drawn to celebrities? What do they offer that makes them so appealing to different age groups?
Celebrity Disappointment
Question 2: Have you ever felt disappointed by a celebrity you admired? How did you handle that disappointment?
Fierce Defence
Question 3: Why do you think people defend celebrities more fiercely than they defend people in their personal lives?
Breakout Room Time: Reflecting on the Video
It's time for some group discussions! We'll be breaking into smaller groups to reflect on the video we just watched and explore some key questions.
Discussion Questions:
  1. How has social media changed the way we interact with celebrities?
  1. What are some of the negative effects of celebrity worship on young people?
Activity:
Share an example of a celebrity you admire and discuss why they appeal to you.
Use these questions and the activity to guide your conversations and explore different perspectives within your group.
Vocabulary Practice
Fill in the blanks using the vocabulary:

1

2

3

4

5

1
Put Someone on a Pedestal
2
Juicy Piece of Gossip
3
False Sense of Intimacy
4
Wrap Your Identity Up
5
Let Someone Down
  1. Social media can create a ___________ with celebrities, making fans feel they have a personal connection with them.
  1. Tabloids often spread a ___________ about celebrities, which captures public attention and fuels rumors.
  1. Many fans ___________, believing their favorite celebrities can do no wrong.
  1. It's disappointing when a celebrity ___________ by not living up to the high expectations of their fans.
  1. Some individuals ___________ in celebrities, leading to a strong emotional response when those celebrities face criticism.
Gap Fill Answers
  1. Social media can create a false sense of intimacy with celebrities, making fans feel they have a personal connection with them.
  1. Tabloids often spread a juicy piece of gossip about celebrities, which captures public attention and fuels rumors.
  1. Many fans put someone on a pedestal, believing their favorite celebrities can do no wrong.
  1. It's disappointing when a celebrity lets someone down by not living up to the high expectations of their fans.
  1. Some individuals wrap their identity up in celebrities, leading to a strong emotional response when those celebrities face criticism.
Strategies for Healthy Celebrity Admiration
Maintaining a healthy perspective when admiring celebrities is crucial in today's media-saturated world. Here are some tips to help you balance admiration with reality:
  • Recognise that celebrities are human beings with flaws
  • Avoid unhealthy comparisons between your life and theirs
  • Focus on personal growth and your own achievements
  • Appreciate celebrities' talents without idolising them
  • Engage in hobbies and interests beyond celebrity culture
  • Limit time spent on celebrity news and social media
By following these strategies, you can learn to admire celebrities responsibly whilst maintaining a balanced and realistic outlook on life.
Optional Task!
Why not write a reflection on a celebrity you admire and how they have influenced you, positively or negatively…
  • Reflect on the impact of celebrity culture on our society
  • Complete the homework assignment: Write about a celebrity's influence on you