An Educated Eater

The study performed by Freedman and Jurafsky analyzed the correlation between social class, language and advertising. It is a well-known fact the manner in which individuals of the lower class speak, though using the same language, is drastically different from that of the higher classes. Using potato chips as a constant, an experiment was conducted that yielded results which paralleled their original hypothesis. On average the “higher quality” chips contained a higher word count, greater reading ability, more information pertaining to health and a need for authenticity that was not exhibited on the packaging of “lower grade” chips.

America is a nation of consumers. Whether we realize it or not, we are constantly being enticed with the newest and latest product that is guaranteed to make us that much better. I think potato chips are only one example of companies catering to specific classes. This can also be seen a great deal in the fast food industry. Though many would think that these corporations don’t serve the upper class, they do indeed and it can be seen throughout their advertising. The working class or low income individual already has a greater probability of going to one of these establishments because it’s affordable and convenient; however in recent years advertising has taken a turn to be more inclusive and almost selective toward the higher class person. As a general rule of thumb- fast food is not healthy. Lately many companies are presenting their use of natural ingredients and steps toward healthier options which appeals to the higher educated individual. Examples of this can be seen in McDonald’s commercials that show fresh tomatoes being sliced or testimonies from family farmers producing natural, American produce for the franchise or at places such as Burger King where they focus on more “sophisticated” ingredients such as sea salt on their fries. These are simply two examples of a trend that is rushing through the country and impacting everyone, from the working to upper classes.