Rebuilding the Arts:

Star ratings are a lazy, reductive and pointless review system. They mean nothing unless you have the exact same taste/ life experience/ daily routine as the critic. People don’t need to know if one person of status likes it, they need to know what it is!

I genuinely believe that the star rating system sits in direct opposition to the purpose of the arts in society. It imposes a perspective instead of creating a dialogue. It perpetuates a power structure that sits in elitism, white washing and capitalism.

Do any critics or writers find it satisfying? Very interested in hearing what purpose it serves for those who support it.

Completely agree, I suppose I’m suggesting that the culture that encourages star ratings is lazy in itself - including marketing, PR, senior editors, artists or audiences who call for it and perpetuate it. Grinds my gears as part of the art vs art approach to culture!!!