Theories on Formulas:
Embedded in the tea
phenomenon are formulas and theories that have been passed around for
generations. Whether the formula is created in the brand or type of tea, or the
marketing of the tea products, it is there to influence society. Generations of tea lovers have sipped the beverage as a medicinal source. Modern
society utilizes the original formula for the tea and creates the persona that
tea mixed with other plant life creates a healthier product.
In society, we
utilize these formulas to create a cultural following. It is all just a method
of marketing products to the masses using society and cultural habits. The discussions
on formulas for films, movies, and tea have helped me realize how our society
is manipulated into different beliefs because of habits. Formulas are used to
captivate our own wants and desires.
I have gained insight
into the tea phenomenon through these theories. I believe a great deal of this
formula and theory is centered on product marketing. Society is utilized
through wants and needs to adhere to products and trust them.
Tea for example is
marketed heavily as a healthy drink and sold at most restaurants, fast food,
c-stores, and grocery aisles. Starbucks has now come out with its own tea
stores promoting every type of tea you can imagine. In addition to the health benefits,
tea is now being promoted in the United States as a social drink. This follows the tradition of our
British friends. Tea is becoming more than a medicinal drink in our culture. Starbucks has been one of the first to use the opportunity and promote tea through mass media as a social drink. The English have
socialized using tea time for centuries but this tea phenomenon across the United States is relatively new. This phenomenon
was brought here and implemented copying British Culture.
So true, there are now antioxidant teas...several herbal teas...teas with promise of energy boosts, the list goes on and on. I happen to adore iced tea, no sugar. I was raised to enjoy it, it is a part of our society as well as other cultures (namely Britain). Very interesting post :)
ReplyDeleteAn interesting take on the socialization aspect of the "afternoon tea" and how companies are working to regain this ritual.
ReplyDeleteThe interesting point in this being tied to "our British friends" is that one of the key events leading up to our revolt from the British empire was the taxation of tea. This of course lead to the infamous Boston Tea Party. A major role of a ritual around tea is tied to this nations independence and 200 plus years of developing our own rituals and popular cultures.