This statement points out that advertisements aimed at consumers often manipulate people into thinking highly of themselves as individuals and encouraging a sense of self-centeredness. These ads can make us believe that our worth or happiness comes from owning certain products, leading to an exaggerated view of personal importance.
On a deeper level, the quote suggests that consumerist advertising contributes to a societal trend where individual desires and personal achievements are prioritized over collective well-being and community values. This mindset fosters a culture where individuals seek validation through material possessions and personal success rather than social connections or shared experiences. The emphasis on self-love in this context can become problematic when it shifts from healthy self-esteem to an unhealthy focus on oneself at the expense of others, leading to broader issues like social isolation and inequality.
Fatema Mernissi was a prominent Moroccan sociologist, writer, and women's rights advocate. Her work often focused on gender roles and Islamic feminism in contemporary Muslim societies. Through her writings, she challenged traditional views and advocated for greater equality and freedom for women within the framework of Islam.
