#212 - Ashley Mears - Why Do People Go To Nightclubs?
Aug 20, 2020
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Ashley Mears, a sociologist, writer, and former fashion model, dives deep into the bustling world of nightclubs. She reveals why men splurge thousands on VIP bottle service and the loud, pulsating music that fills these spaces. Mears discusses the social dynamics at play, especially the pressures women face in nightlife, and the rich cultural symbolism of champagne. She also shares insights from her immersive research in New York and Miami, exposing the intriguing relationship between beauty, wealth, and social connections in the high-end club scene.
Nightclubs serve as spaces for displaying and reinforcing social status through extravagant consumption of champagne.
The presence of young women who meet fashion industry beauty standards enhances the prestige and status of VIP club environments.
Gender dynamics in nightclubs perpetuate societal inequalities, with men as primary consumers and women facing scrutiny based on appearance and potential stigma.
Deep dives
The Sociologist's Study of the VIP Clubbing World
The podcast episode features an interview with sociologist Ashley Mears, who conducted immersive ethnographic research on the VIP clubbing world. Mears became a party girl for six months, following prominent club promoters in cities like New York and Miami. She explored the sociological and psychological reasons behind people's enjoyment of nightclubs, including why men spend large amounts on bottles of champagne in VIP clubs, the significance of loud music, the specific look of girls at VIP tables, and the anthropological underpinnings of the nightclub culture. It is a fascinating episode that delves into the social dynamics and cultural economics of the clubbing scene.
The Significance of Champagne in Nightclubs
The podcast discussion also focuses on the role of champagne in nightclubs. Champagne is seen as a high-status good associated with luxury and celebrations, making it a popular beverage in clubbing environments. The expensive and showy nature of champagne bottles, often accompanied by sparklers or brought to tables by attractive bottle girls, reflects conspicuous consumption and offers an opportunity for people to display their wealth and status. Mears explores how the display of champagne and bottle service allows clubgoers to show off and be part of the exclusive and glamorous world of nightclubs.
Exploring the Role of Girls in Nightclub Culture
Another focus of the podcast is the role of young women in nightclub culture. Mears explains that in the VIP clubbing world, girls who join guys at tables are usually young and adhere to the beauty standards defined by the fashion modeling industry. These girls represent a specific type of beauty that is seen as prestigious and communicates high social status. Their presence at the tables elevates the status of not only the individuals but also the entire club environment. However, it is interesting to note that despite their value in creating profit for the industry, models and bottle girls are often seen as disposable and not suitable for long-term relationships or serious commitment.
Gender Dynamics and Inequalities in Nightclubs
The podcast episode delves into the gender dynamics and inequalities present in nightclubs. While men and women both face certain limitations and expectations, the clubbing industry is built on the assumption that men are the primary consumers and spenders, while women are expected to possess certain physical attributes that make them valuable, such as beauty and youth. Women often face scrutiny and judgment based on their appearance, such as body size, when trying to gain entry to clubs. The episode also highlights the societal stigma attached to women who receive financial compensation for their presence in the clubbing scene, as they are often seen as closer to sex workers. These gendered dynamics reflect larger societal inequalities and hierarchies.
The Changing Landscape of Nightlife due to COVID-19
The podcast briefly discusses the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the nightclub industry. Nightclubs have been heavily affected by the need for social distancing and restrictions on large gatherings. The industry faces challenges in terms of adapting to new safety measures and finding ways to offer the unique experiences that clubs are known for while prioritizing public health. The future of nightlife remains uncertain, with potential changes in socializing norms and the need for innovative approaches to create safe and enjoyable experiences for clubgoers.
Ashley Mears is a writer, sociologist and former fashion model.
What happens if a sociologist decides to do immersive ethnographic research and become a party girl for 6 months, following some of the biggest promoters around New York & Miami and assessing what's going on?
Why do men spend £1000's on bottles of champagne in VIP clubs? Why is the music so loud? Why is there a very specific type of girl on these tables? What are the anthropological underpinnings of nightclubs?
