Dr. Seuss Enterprises is ceasing publication of six books because they "portray people in ways that are hurtful and wrong." So why are so many selling their copies for $500, $1,262, $3,184? I talked to a prof who researches consumer behaviour and ethics: thestar.com/news/gta/2021/…
“(Sellers and buyers) are likely willing to overlook the racist aspects in the name of things like nostalgia and making money,” says Peter Darke of @SchulichSchool. “If they are selling it at a surprisingly high price there’s more going on there...” /2 thestar.com/news/gta/2021/…
Some ppl need the money, some see Dr. Seuss as art and feeling nostalgic, don't want to see racism in his work.
“Denialism can come with issues like racism and other kinds of prejudice,” Darke says. “They don’t want to believe it to be true.” /3 thestar.com/news/gta/2021/…
“Denialism can come with issues like racism and other kinds of prejudice,” Darke says. “They don’t want to believe it to be true.” /3 thestar.com/news/gta/2021/…
Defiance may be an alternative factor. “(Some) might also buy the books because they don’t agree with the publisher and see the publisher’s actions as contrary to their freedom of choice.” That is called reactance. /4 thestar.com/news/gta/2021/…
“It is possible at least some of those who are now trying to buy Dr. Seuss books might actually agree the books are racist but are seeking them out in a misguided attempt to assert their freedom.” /5 thestar.com/news/gta/2021/…
Social media discourse is an element adding to the resale value of the books. “Things end up getting hashed out more and more through social media. Then there are the emotional reactions that add to demand.” /6 thestar.com/news/gta/2021/…
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