Oh My God, Harry Potter

I thoroughly agree with this piece and its views. I think it was very well written and enjoyed learning the specific's of Harry Potter mania. Galligan addresses key points to how marketing works and how Harry Potter has managed to become such a world wide phenomenon. One thing that struck me as extremely interesting was all of the criticism conservative groups, nutritional groups and feminists gave to the approach of this marketing campaign.

First off, there was the complaint about supporting witchcraft and satanism. Seriously? Its Harry Potter. He is a wizard. I think even children know not to expect Harry Potter to read the bible or go to temple. I also think most people who read this book honestly believe, deep down, that they themselves are not wizards. Thus, through common sense, know that practicing wizardry is not for them. The book is made of fiction, Rowling can write about whatever she wants.

Second, feminists provided feedback about how the male characters are portrayed as leaders in this story. I have a problem with this complaint. If women were the main hero's in this novel, feminists would not notice or say anything negative about it. That is sexism. It's annoying. And everyone is an individual. By making this complaint, you are classifying people by their gender. Stating that girls should not be shy or that this is a bad quality. How does that make naturally shy people feel? Yeah, it's a dick comment. I'm sure there are many girls and boys who are shy and many who are not. Sorry Harry Potter didn't happen to be one of them.

Last, the health group. They are upset that Coke is sponsoring Harry Potter and are stating that Rowling is thus promoting poor health. Really? I have never once heard from any child, ever, "I love coke because Harry Potter is endorsed by it." They don't even show Harry Potter or any cast member drinking it! What is this. You are allowed to have your views and coca-cola is allowed theirs. You are marketing for a certain nutritional diet and Coke is marketing for theirs. They don't tell you what to do, so you should show them the same respect. Both groups have had your fair chances to market to kids, sorry Health group, that you are not winning. That you have not been chosen as a preferable life style. That is not Harry Potter's fault. Kids drank Coke before Harry Potter was around and they will continue long after he is gone.