The Truth Behind the Highest Paid Occupations in the Entertainment Industry
In a world where money is a driving force, some highly paid professions stand out in the eyes of the public. Entertainers, athletes, actors, and musicians are often at the top of this list. Many people wonder, ldquo;Why are these individuals, who are essentially lsquo;toolsrsquo; to control the masses, some of the highest paid occupations in the world?rdquo;
The answer lies in the intricate web of advertising, mass media, and consumer behavior. These professionals are often not as different from the average person as one might think, but their potential to influence and reach a vast audience has transformed their careers from local to global.
The Role of Mass Media
Mass media has fundamentally changed the landscape of entertainment and sports, making it possible for people to access the best professionals in the world at the touch of a button. With the advent of television, internet, and radio, one does not need to settle for local or semi-professional options. Today, we can turn on the television to watch the best football players in the world or the finest actors from around the globe, such as Al Pacino, Marlon Brando, and Meryl Streep.
This widespread accessibility has advantages for consumers, but it presents challenges for many professionals. For every high-profile star like Tom Cruise or Tom Brady, there are many thousands who struggle to make it to the top. The lucky few who indeed make it, however, often benefit in a way not imaginable in earlier times. Think of Midas who became immensely wealthy due to their exceptional talent and good fortune. Modern mass media allows these individuals a platform to be seen and heard by millions.
Subjective Talent and Luck
Despite the objective frame of mass media, the determination of who is ldquo;world-classrdquo; or ldquo;the bestrdquo; can be quite subjective. Actors like Al Pacino, Meryl Streep, and Robert DeNiro are often cited as examples of exceptional talent. However, the film industry, much like any other, can be capricious, and not every talented person gets the chance to shine.
There are instances where less talented individuals seem to get famous and become regulars in popular roles. This is often due to luck or early exposure, followed by the success of their movie, leading to a string of opportunities. The film industry thrives on such hits-and-misses, and for those who make it, the potential rewards are immense.
Tech for the Few
Technological advancements have given rise to a vast ecosystem where the lucky few can amass significant wealth, but it does not necessarily benefit the average performer. The technology of mass media has a skewed effect: it elevates a few to unparalleled success, but it can be a struggle for the majority to achieve even part-time work or modest earnings in their careers.
In the Middle Ages, you might have only needed a few hundred people buying theater tickets, and these tickets would go for merely a few pence. Contrast that with today where the popularity of some performers can lead to tens of millions of people watching them. However, for those not among the most popular, the question often is, ldquo;If the best in the world are available for free, why should one pay to see you?rdquo;
Therefore, while the entertainment industry presents a spectacle of wealth for a fortunate few, it highlights the stark contrast between the rewards for mass appeal versus the struggle for recognition and success in industries dominated by mass media.