In a world where we’re bombarded with content from corporate publishing, there’s an unspoken bias that often goes unnoticed—the double standard in our perception of quality based on origin.
This post explores the overlooked discrepancy we face in our daily consumption of media and art.
It challenges the ingrained belief that only content from major studios, labels, or publishers is worth our time and appreciation.
The Double Standard We Don’t Talk About
Imagine someone asking: “Would you watch a video not produced by a Hollywood studio?” or “Would you listen to a band not affiliated with a major label?”
The list goes on—podcasts not produced by known radio stations, blog posts not affiliated with mainstream news organisations, art not featured in major galleries, or even food from independent cafes.
Somehow, the question of quality or value doesn’t seem as pressing in these cases.
The Psychology Behind the Bias
The preference for mainstream content over independent or lesser-known creations is not just a matter of exposure but is deeply rooted in psychological factors.
One key aspect is the ‘bandwagon effect’, a type of cognitive bias where individuals tend to align their preferences with those of the majority.
In the context of media and art, this means gravitating towards content that is widely accepted or popular.
This effect is reinforced by social proof, where the popularity of a work (measured in sales, views, or social media engagement) serves as a validation of its quality, often leading individuals to prefer these over less known works, regardless of their actual merit.
Another psychological factor is the concept of ‘familiarity bias’, where individuals demonstrate a preference for what they know or have been repeatedly exposed to.
Mainstream content, often heavily marketed and widely distributed, becomes familiar, creating a comfort zone that many are reluctant to leave.
This familiarity not only makes mainstream content more accessible but also more digestible, as it often aligns with established trends and norms.
Societal norms and media influence play a significant role in shaping our perceptions of quality and value in creative works.
Mainstream media, including television, radio, and online platforms, often act as gatekeepers, controlling what is presented to the public and thus influencing public opinion and taste.
This influence creates a cycle where mainstream media promotes certain content, which then becomes popular, further reinforcing its promotion.
The Issue of Quality—A Universal Concern
Critics often claim that the world is awash with poor-quality self-published books.
While this may hold some truth, it’s a criticism that could be applied across the board—to YouTube videos, Spotify tracks, and amateur photography alike.
Yet, these platforms aren’t generally dismissed or avoided; people sift through the content to find what they love.
Breaking Down the Barriers
In our contemporary landscape, traditional gatekeepers are increasingly irrelevant.
Technology has democratised the world of content creation.
Despite this, the notion that self-published books are somehow less valid than their corporate-published counterparts stubbornly persists.
Reject the Old Narratives
It’s time to dispel the myth fuelled by the corporate publishing world.
It’s time to give independent creators the consideration they deserve, regardless of their medium.
Your next favourite book might not come from a bestseller list but from an indie author who poured their heart and soul into their work.
So, the next time you’re scrolling through potential reads, don’t dismiss a book just because it’s self-published.
You might just stumble upon a hidden gem.
CherryEdits 