Miki's Mall Post

The photograph above is one of a children's play ground in the Woodland Mall. On the surface, this is a an "awwww" inducing, cute photograph positively leaking fluffy love. Sort of. Meh. However, after a moment's contemplation, I realised how insidious the play area really was. In actual fact, it reeks of the sly machinations of commerce's overarching tendrils. Okay, perhaps that is a bit too much, and I am not normally inclined with such sweeping statements. Nevertheless, the play area does speak volumes for how children are treated in the interest of commercialisation.
In essence, the play area allows for more time for parents to spend shopping, because it can keep children amused, occupied with with the play area, instead of griping about wasting time tagging along. Another thing to consider is that children from an early age now have the opportunity to spend more time in shopping malls, thus making them more used to the spectacle of commerce. Instead of reading, going to the library, playing outside, etc, children now have the wonderful chance to spend time inside a stifling, bustling, mind numbing, creativity sapping environment! So nice. Of course, in many instances, I suppose parents don't have a choice when it comes to taking their children with them shopping, as they have no one else to take care of them. Despite this, perhaps there are alternatives. Maybe, maybe not. But it is something to consider.
The same goes with teenagers. I, for one am guilty. I spend a lot of time in commercialised areas, filled with advertisements, billboards, etc. Let us ponder for but a while. Is there another way to spend our time that promotes creativity and that does not forcibly direct our attentions? This is not to say that malls are ALWAYS insidious, but let us be honest here. Neither are they not concerned with our wholesome well-being. Any thoughts?