Why Celebrities Tend to Align Themselves with Liberal Ideologies

Have you ever wondered why celebrities, particularly artists and entertainers, seem to align themselves with liberal ideologies? This phenomenon can be attributed to a complex interplay of psychological, social, and environmental factors. In this article, we explore the reasons behind this trend and how it relates to the concept of 'arts colonization,'[1] where specific groups dominate certain cultural spaces.

Understanding the "Old-Boy’s Network" Phenomenon

The term "old-boy’s network" [2] describes a situation where certain groups, often male-dominated, control influential positions, making it challenging for others to join or progress. This concept is particularly relevant in fields like technology and the arts, where initial cultural dominance can have lasting impacts.

Consider the example of a local dive bar where initially, techies from a theatre school started patronizing it. These lighting riggers and set builders were well-received by the established biker crowd. However, as more actor friends began frequenting the bar, the bar’s character began to shift. The bikers, outnumbered, eventually chose to find new places to hang out. This illustrates how cultural dominance can alter the nature of a space—both in physical and social contexts.

Celebrity Artists and the Arts

Celebrities from the arts are typically seen as representatives of these dominant groups. For young artists and entertainers aspiring to become famous, the arts often become a space where they must align with certain ideologies to gain acceptance. If a conservative artist were to join a drama school, they would likely face a student body overwhelmingly composed of leftist individuals, openly discussing controversial topics like abortion and LGBTQ rights.

While it's important to note that no one inherently is more artistic than another based on political affiliation, the cultural context can significantly influence an individual's choices and career paths. For instance, an artist from a conservative background might struggle to fit in a liberal arts school, leading them to seek out environments with which they feel more aligned.

The Role of Powerful Individuals in Shaping Ideologies

Once individuals from these dominant groups become celebrities, they often use their platform to promote their ideologies. This can include surrounding themselves with like-minded individuals and supporting projects that align with their beliefs. This dynamic further entrenches the cultural divide, as these celebrities continue to exert influence through their networks and platforms.

Self-Sorting and Vicious Cycles

Understanding why certain areas become predominantly liberal or conservative involves the concept of self-sorting. People tend to gravitate towards communities that they believe will accept them, whether it's a physical space or a cultural practice. This behavior can create cyclical patterns where neighborhoods and communities become increasingly homogenous, making it challenging for individuals from other backgrounds to integrate.

For example, a conservative individual looking to buy a house might avoid an area with numerous "Biden BLM and pro-choice" signs in yards, afraid of not being accepted. Conversely, a liberal individual might actively seek out such areas, creating a self-reinforcing cycle. This dynamic is evident in both physical neighborhoods and online communities, where people often gravitate towards those with similar beliefs.

Conclusion

The tendency of celebrities, particularly those in the arts and entertainment, to align with liberal ideologies is multifaceted. It stems from factors such as the "old-boy’s network" phenomenon, the cultural dominance of certain groups in the arts, and the self-sorting behavior of individuals seeking acceptance. While this phenomenon may seem polarizing, it also highlights the importance of inclusivity and understanding in shaping more diverse and accepting environments.

References

Goolsbee, A. (2018). Arts Colonization: How Local Economics Shape the Arts. American Economic Association. Coleman, J. (1961). Social Capital in the Creation of Human Capital. American Journal of Sociology, 78(6), 573-592.