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International Connections Paper 2
International Connections Paper 2
International Connections Paper 2
12/8/2023
The Alcohol industry is a strong force in the economy today and greatly impacts various
aspects of society. Beyond its role of providing drinks, the alcohol industry shapes multiple
dynamics of power, such as things like knowledge, privilege, gender, the economy, religion, and
race. In this paper, I will further examine these points and discuss how the alcohol industry
The alcohol industry plays a significant part in shaping public knowledge through the
way that it chooses to market and advertise its products. This effort not only entices and
encourages the consumption of alcohol but also influences the perception of society. Alcohol is
advertised as something used for socializing or relaxing, and while that is true, it also neglects
the potential health risks that are associated with alcohol consumption, resulting in a skewed
sense of knowledge.
Another dynamic of power that the industry of alcohol is closely tied to is privilege,
especially economic privilege. This can influence decisions regarding policies that limit access to
the market, making smaller producers and consumers struggle. This imbalance of power leaves
those who are at the top of the hierarchy with even more power.
Gender is another dynamic of power that the alcohol industry plays into. As we look back
into history, we see that the alcohol industry perpetuated gender stereotypes through the way that
they chose to market and advertise their products. They would link certain drinks with
impacts economic structures. While the industry creates employment opportunities and
contributes to the government through taxes, it also uses its power negatively, causing things like
Another dynamic that alcohol plays into is the cultural significance of religious beliefs
and practices. However, with that comes challenges such as balancing the delicate line between
cultural traditions and commercial interests. Some religions are against alcohol, while others
Lastly, the alcohol industry influences race. It is clear through the way that the industry
chooses to market that they use cultural representations. With that, racial stereotypes are
The dynamics of power within the alcohol industry have a major effect on society. By
examining its impact on knowledge, privilege, gender, economies, religion, and race relations,
we can gain insight into the many ways that this industry shapes various aspects of our lives.