‘and if Saturday Don’t Come Soon, I’m Gonna Lose My Mind’ – an Examination of How Drugs Impact the Lower and Working Classes and Why the Quest for Escapism in the Modern Age Drives Capitalism, Along With the Media’s Representation of It

Abstract

Throughout human history, the use of natural substances to alter one’s mind and body has been a consistent practice worldwide, suggesting that this behaviour is not new but rather an inherent part of the human experience. The Industrial Revolution marked a significant turning point in how technology and the economy functioned, with the mass production of pharmaceuticals made possible by these discoveries. This had a profound impact on the working class. As a result, individuals found themselves faced with a choice between chemically manufactured pills and traditional natural remedies, leading to a culture of consumption for the overworked man. This dissertation will explore the impact that drugs have on the lower and working-class communities, examining how the need to turn to drugs as a means of coping with daily struggles contributes to a capitalist system that many feel trapped within. Additionally, this discussion will consider the portrayal of drugs in art, particularly within film studies, highlighting how this medium serves to communicate the experiences and challenges faced by these social classes, which should inspire the audience to reflect on social dynamics.