Final answer:
The McDonaldization of Society, a term introduced by George Ritzer, refers to the widespread application of fast food principles like efficiency, predictability, calculability, and control to social institutions, resulting in uniformity but facing growing resistance through de-McDonaldization efforts.
Step-by-step explanation:
The concept of McDonaldization of Society was coined by sociologist George Ritzer in 1993 to describe the increasing influence of the fast food business model on various social institutions. The term encapsulates the principles of efficiency, predictability, calculability, and control, which are widely applied in chains like grocery stores, where specific roles are delineated for maximum productivity, consistent branding and pricing are present across different locations, and a focus on measurable outputs like sales by weight and timecard tracking for wages.
This model has had profound effects on consumers' choices and expectations, often leading to a homogenization of goods and services available. While the model has increased accessibility and may improve profits, it has also been linked to societal problems such as the lack of diversity in product offerings and the US obesity epidemic. Observations of stores like Walmart or any large-chain restaurant will reveal these characteristics—unmissable uniformity and systemization that have become the norm. Nevertheless, there is a growing trend towards de-McDonaldization, with movements like farmers markets and microbreweries emphasizing individuality and bespoke products.