Since Beatlemania -Other Phenomena That Have Impacted the World As Much or More?

[Paperback Writer]

Since 1963-64 and Beatlemania, what other international/world/nation events have impacted our world, as much or more?  It could be musical, scientific, political, the arts, military, religeous, humanistic - or anything!

Please mention it here.

I'll start: The personal computer (and it's extended family - phones, pads, et all)

 

[Greg]

Geez.  How about something like "Favorite song on Help!" or something easy.
"Impacted as much or more?"
Computer/Internet/etc.  I agree.
I initially just thought of "The acceptance, and encouragement, of excess greed."
I think Nixon being allowed to go retire to a life of comfort in California impacted many Americans whether they realized it or not.  He clearly committed crimes but was allowed to pay no consequences.  I think that sent a message to all Americans that it is ok to do some things that are wrong, or maybe it sent the message that the system they thought existed, in fact, didn't.  That, combined with the failure of Viet Nam, impacted people in this country that can't be measured.

[bungalobill]

I'm gonna go with......Reality TV. We have a whole generation of people now, who will do ANYTHING to be famous....and I find that a bit creepy. Fame for the sake of fame...no discernible talent or traits to look up to or be proud of...and people flock to these people and admire them. Scary. The other thing I've noticed  though is there doesn't seem to be male equivalents of the Paris Hilton's of the world. What does that say I wonder?

[Greg]

Funny, I was going to mention Real World 1.  I thought that started something described by bungalobill's post.  It's true, and amazing, that people do flock to these people who have done nothing but sign up for something and do nothing.  I do have admiration for Dustin Hoffman or Michael Stipe or whomever.  They worked at a craft where I appreciate their efforts.  That Paris Hilton topic, also mentioned by bungalobill, was perfect.  She did usher in a your're-famous-for-practically-no-reason era (leave out the word 'practically').  Although Vanna White was a pioneer at that, at least she was doing something on a popular television show.

No male counterpart of Paris Hilton?  Not that I can think of, but the question raised of "Why not?" is fascinating.

[bungalobill]

I may be mistaken about the Male counterparts...in the UK there seems to be a few...that Jack Tweed loser who married that reality star who passed away last year....also some other guy who married a reality star..Katey Price?...can't remember now and I'm too lazy to look it up...but..they seem to have their own shows over there.

[Paperback Writer]

Greg, you nailed it good by citing Nixon and political corruption.

bungalobill; i guess a lot of the reality show/famous for being famous people stuff could be placed in the category of: 24 hr. Cable  TV.

Paris Hilton - male version?  probably a lot of them I would have no idea who they are, but how about Simon Cowell?  Now he got on that show and fam0us because...............???  WHY?

  Thanks, Good ones!

[2 of 3]

Facebook is a bit scary too. Up to date on everyone you know, minute by minute. It's a great idea though...just a bit addictive.

I'm on it too...under a false name of course.....dang that Witness Protection Program!