Influence, Activism and the Power of Celebrity.

Irish singer Bono once wrote, “Fame is a currency. I want to spend mine on the right stuff.”  The currency Bono refers to can be interpreted both metaphorically and literally. Fame is often associated with money and many celebrities donate large amounts to causes they believe in. I believe the currency Bono was referencing was not funds, but activism and influence. The effect that celebrities have on people is fascinating. The more attention the general public gives celebrities, the more powerful they become in society. Regardless of whether you  think positively about a celebrity, a space in your brain is occupied by their existence. 

Whether fame is a blessing or a curse depends on whom it is bestowed upon. In the words of Peter Parker’s Uncle Ben, “With great power comes great responsibility.” This responsibility refers to a person's purpose on earth and ability to make a difference. Fame is granted unwillingly, while activism is a choice. Is it fair then that I frown upon celebrities who choose privacy and non-partisationship? I will admit, I have contemplated this for a long  time. My conclusion reflects my personal values, a product of my environment and upbringing. It is evident that celebrities are granted immense privilege in many aspects of life. That being said I applaud when they give back through donations or the pursuit of activism. Celebrities can truly make a difference, and they should. The right to free speech is protected in our US Constitution for unselfish reasons. 

Fortunately, celebrity activism is prevalent across American history. Muhammed Ali and his refusal to participate  in the  Vietnam War cost him years of participation in his own fighting career.  In 2020, Dolly Parton donated one million dollars to fund COVID-19 vaccine research, which expedited its release and encouraged its use. When Leonardo Dicaprio wins an Oscar Award, he uses his acceptance speech to emphasize the pressing issue of climate change. It can be argued that Leo did not study science or environmental research and therefore should not speak on climate change. But Leo is a United Nations Messenger of Peace who has been present at numerous conferences and has been privy to extensive amounts of information unavailable to the general public, which has driven and informed his activism. Factual information is powerful and an indication of  privilege. 

Human psychology can help us understand why celebrity activism works. In a study published in the US National Library of Medicine, the question of celebrity influence is explored. “Sociology explains how celebrities’ advice spreads through social networks, how their influence is a manifestation of people’s desire to acquire celebrities’ social capital, and how they affect the ways people acquire and interpret health information.” This is rather saddening, as it addresses humans’ internal lack of contentment which inturn creates a lack of autonomy. To combat this, I believe it is important to remain constantly curious. Admire celebrity activism and endorsement, but make sure to allow your own opinions to come forth.