The Boyfriend-Industrial Complex

I had a conversation with a friend about American Football. She complained about how her boyfriend was trying to convert her into a Patriots fan. He constantly gifted her Patriots memorabilia and went as far as to change her laptop wallpaper to the Patriots logo. He was driving her crazy.

As I thought of the persistent nudges of her well-meaning boyfriend urging her to become a fan, I couldn’t help but wonder if it’s akin to the subtle ways society encourages romantic relationships. Just as her boyfriend enthusiastically described the history of the New England Patriots, our culture often paints an enticing picture of romance, like it’s a crucial ingredient for a fulfilling life.

Yet, as we sometimes may feel compelled to relent and dawn a patriots jersey despite our preferences, we might find ourselves pursuing relationships out of a sense of societal expectation rather than genuine desire. 

This phenomenon, which I’ve termed the “Boyfriend-Industrial Complex,” reflects a cultural attitude where romantic relationships are glorified, often to the detriment of other types of love. 

This wouldn’t be an “Industrial Complex,” however, without the involvement of industries. The Boyfriend Industrial Complex fuels a lucrative market for companies and industries that capitalize on our relationship obsession—advertising, entertainment, retail, and technology. The commercial benefits of romantic idealization are everywhere.

Relationships can be magical. They can be ethereal and filled with love and compassion. So, if you find yourself entering one, do so with the clarity of mind needed to sustain one, not because of societal pressure.

Written By Bless Iteka