Glossary / Lexicon

Deutsch: Götzen des Marktes / Español: Ídolos del mercado / Português: Ídolos do mercado / Français: Idôles du marché / Italiano: Idoli del mercato /

Idols of the marketplace refers to Bacon's term for error that results when one accepts the traditional meanings of the words used to describe things.

The "idols of the marketplace" is a term coined by the philosopher Francis Bacon to describe the ways in which language and communication can be misleading and deceptive. In psychology, this concept has been used to describe how certain social and cultural influences can affect our thinking and perceptions of the world. Here are some examples of idols of the marketplace:

1. Advertising: Advertising can be seen as an idol of the marketplace because it often uses language and images that are designed to manipulate our desires and perceptions. Advertisers may use emotional appeals, celebrity endorsements, and other techniques to influence our purchasing decisions.

2. Social media: Social media platforms can also be an idol of the marketplace because they can create echo chambers that reinforce our existing beliefs and biases. This can lead to polarization and groupthink, where individuals become more entrenched in their positions and less open to alternative perspectives.

3. News media: The news media can also be an idol of the marketplace because of its role in shaping public opinion and influencing political discourse. Biases in reporting, sensationalism, and selective coverage can all contribute to a distorted view of reality.

4. Peer pressure: Peer pressure is another example of an idol of the marketplace, as it can influence our behavior and attitudes in ways that may not align with our values or beliefs. This can be particularly true for adolescents and young adults, who may be more susceptible to social pressures from their peers.

5. Cultural norms: Cultural norms can also be an idol of the marketplace, as they can shape our perceptions of what is acceptable or desirable behavior. This can include gender roles, beauty standards, and other social expectations that may not align with our individual values or beliefs.