Golden Arches East
Golden Arches East
Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2006
Book Brief
280
Book • Nonfiction
East Asia • 1990s
2006
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Golden Arches East: McDonald’s in East Asia, edited by James L. Watson, explores the cultural impact of McDonald’s in five East Asian locations—Beijing, Hong Kong, Taipei, Seoul, and Japan—through anthropological essays. The book examines how local consumers experience McDonald’s, raising questions about cultural imperialism, capitalist consumerism, and fast food's impact on traditional food cultures.
Informative
Contemplative
Nostalgic
Reviews & Readership
386 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Golden Arches East by James L. Watson explores the cultural contexts and impacts of McDonald's in East Asia. Praised for its insightful ethnographic analysis and diverse perspectives from multiple scholars, the book is often highlighted for its depth and clarity. Criticized for occasionally dense academic jargon, it nonetheless offers valuable, well-researched contributions to understanding globalization.
Who Should Read Golden Arches East?
Golden Arches East by James L. Watson appeals to readers interested in cultural anthropology, globalization, and the social impact of multinational corporations. Fans of Fast Food Nation by Eric Schlosser and The World is Flat by Thomas L. Friedman will appreciate Watson's in-depth analysis of McDonald's influence in East Asia.
386 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
280
Book • Nonfiction
East Asia • 1990s
2006
Adult
18+ years
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