Abolish the Activism-Industrial Complex
People are calling out The Activist, but sadly it’s an accurate portrayal of what “activism” has become these days.
CBS just announced it would be coming out with an Apprentice-style competition reality show called “The Activist” in which six contestants will be paired up with celebrities like Usher and Priyanka Chopra to promote their causes. So far, the show has been widely ridiculed online — and for good reason.
It’s really beyond parody.
If it were satire, this utter bastardization of concepts like “movements” and “social change” would be a brilliant commentary on shallow celebrity advocacy and half-assed online pseudoactivism.
Just read this write-up in Deadline:
Activists go head-to-head in challenges to promote their causes, with their success measured via online engagement, social metrics, and hosts’ input. The three teams have one ultimate goal: to create impactful movements that amplify their message, drive action, and advance them to the G20 Summit in Rome, Italy. There, they will meet with world leaders in the hope of securing funding and awareness for their causes. The team that receives the largest commitment is celebrated as the overall winner at the finale, which will also feature…
