Prominent Moroccan author and sociologist Fatema Mernissi devoted a large portion of her career to studying women's roles in Muslim societies. But she also had a sharp understanding of more general societal issues that impact everyone, regardless of gender or culture.

The way that commercial messaging shapes our individual identities and values is touched upon in Mernissi's observation regarding consumerist ads. She maintained that advertisements frequently present people as autonomous beings who must express themselves by making purchases. People are encouraged by this viewpoint to prioritize their own needs and wants over the welfare of the community.

Think of society as a huge garden, with each person tending to its upkeep and aesthetic appeal. According to Mernissi, consumerist ads spread selfishness like a mischievous wind throughout this garden. People are encouraged to plant only their own needs rather than considering the larger landscape as a result of these seeds taking root in their minds.

This trend toward individualism and self-love has the potential to create a fractured society in which rivalry and personal ambition eclipse collaboration and support for one another. Mernissi was worried that this kind of trend would erode community bonds and make it more difficult for people to feel fully included or fulfilled in their social roles.

Her observations push us to think more holistically about self-expression and community involvement, challenging us to assess how commercial messages impact our identities and interpersonal relationships.