Photo credit: Daniel Horacio Agosi
How often have you heard the phrase “It’s a conspiracy!”? Maybe it’s about politics and the death of John F. Kennedy. Or what about the theories surrounding aliens landing at Roswell. And don’t forget about Elvis. Has he passed away, or is he serving burgers at a Diner in Texas?
A conspiracy is defined as an evil, unlawful, treacherous or surreptitious plan formulated in secret by two or more persons. Certainly the above famous conspiracy theories fall under that definition, but what about the more mundane definition of conspiracy, which is any concurrence in action, or a combination bringing about a given result.
What sort of conspiracy theories surround your every-day life that perhaps you’ve never even noticed?
1. If you eat this food, you will lose weight.
There are so many different foods touted as the miracle food to make you lose weight. Acai berries. Raspberry ketones. Broccoli. Grapefruit. Soup. Water. And don’t forget the opposite conspiracy, such as not eating bananas or avocado. Living a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and plenty of exercise and fresh air will do more for your wellbeing than any berry or super shake.
2. If you use this face cream, you will look younger.
Women in particular are bombarded with information about how to reverse the signs of ageing. I can’t remember the last time I read a magazine, or watched a television program, without being told that a new miracle cosmetic has arrived to chase my lines away. Cosmetics companies spend millions trying to convince you not only purchase their products, but also to convince you of the necessity in doing so. In the end it all comes down to looking after ourselves, and loving what we have.
3. If you use this nappy, you are a good mother.
Have you ever wondered where the babies are that are used in the commercials made to sell nappies? Those smiling, laughing, happy babies are obviously well looked after by good mothers. Right? Now turn to see your nine month old eating out of the dog’s breakfast dish. So if we use that particular brand of nappy, that will make me us good mothers too won’t it? Regardless of our babies predilection for puppy pellets? Being a mother (and father) is a tough gig sometimes. Try to take the judgement of what is good, and what is not, out of the equation and instead look for love and joy in the moments that present themselves.
4. If you drive this car, you will be cool.
So much of today’s advertising focuses on using things to change the way we, and others, see ourselves. Cars, phones, saucepans, clothes etc. are all ways to indicate our status amongst our peers. And yes, buying a new dress can make you feel like a million dollars. But we also need to nurture our inner selves, and ensure that the beauty within matches the beauty without.
Conspiracy theories like those mentioned have a profound effect on how we see ourselves, and our place in the world.
Let’s aim to become more aware women – aware of the different theories that surround us every day and influence our decisions.
