ENCORE: Why We Buy

In our digital age, people have grown to see social media platforms as mere tools and applications. Marcus Collins, the award-winning marketer, former digital strategist for Beyoncé, and author of "For The Culture", argues otherwise. Join host Ron Steslow as he sits down with Marcus to unravel the deep-seated influence of culture on social media and our daily choices. Marcus elaborates on his assertion that "social media is people" and why understanding this fundamental idea changes our approach to digital platforms. He also delves into the crucial role of culture in hyperpolarization and how it weaves into the fabric of our society. Segments to look forward to: (01:20) How Marcus came to study culture: "I feel like I'm at my best when I'm helping people realize the best version of themselves…” (04:26) The connection between marketing and psychology (08:42) The importance of purpose in advertising: "Start with what you believe and when you start with what you believe people who see the world the way you do go, 'Finally, someone said it. That's my person.'” (17:02) The influence of culture on consumer choice (20:40) The connection between culture and politics (24:00) Case study: How Patagonia leveraged culture to build their brand (30:00) Case study: Donald Trump's cultural strategy in the 2016 election (32:09) Understanding tribes and congregations (37:27)”The brain is a prediction machine” (40:00) The role of culture in hyperpolarization (42:14) The state of anti-Trump Republicans within the broader Republican culture (44:00) How subcultures develop and operate (50:00) How preaching the gospel can get people to move You Should Read For the Culture: https://amzn.to/3QjLDaH Check out Predictably Rational by Dan Ariely: https://amzn.to/3rPeWHL Follow Ron and Marcus on X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/RonSteslow https://twitter.com/marctothec For the full and ad-free version of this episode, subscribe to Politicology+ at https://politicology.com/plus Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices