This question <112|122> overall <115|117> BHales: <78|177>.

Question 256: How does Marx's use of the term “fetishism” compare with its modern dictionary definition?

[116] BHales: Fetishism.   The modern definition is:

An inanimate object worshiped for its supposed magical powers or because it is considered to be inhabited by a spirit. A course of action to which one has an excessive and irrational commitment.

As mentioned by Bronco in [2007SP:168], fetishism in modern terms is in most cases directed towards a man-made product. He gives the example of the allure of owning a BMW. Dani adds in [2007SP:189] that Marx's reference to fetishism attaching social properties to commodities that they don't naturally possess. Consumers believe these characteristics give them power or a certain status in society. Commodity fetishism is the exploitation that occurs to provide consumers with the many commodities we possess. The exploitation in other countries in order for consumers to obtain cheap commodities (i.e. gasoline, Walmart goods) is what Marx meant by Commodity Fetishism.

Hans: This exploitation is not driven by the consumers. Consumer demand is held up as a convenient excuse for the predatory practices of our businesses abroad, practices about which they try to leave the consumers in the dark.

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