Ethical Debate: Ghettoblasting in Public Confined Spaces

I do not consider myself to be a misanthrope, however, I definitely question that statement any time I try to study/read at most any local Starbucks.  

I realize that I am not choosing to read in a library.  I respect the fact that there are group confabs that meet in these particular settings and that Starbucks plays its handpicked musical selections.  

But what truly concerns me is when customers treat Starbucks as their own living room by ghettoblasting their own music preferences without headphones.  Why should we, mere minions, have to listen to your music?  What sets you apart from the rest of us?  Furthermore, I don't appreciate having to listen to your screamo music as it interferes with the music that is already being played. 

Not all ghettoblasters are intentional.  Sometimes I like to crank up the music in my car not realizing how affective the booming throbs may appear.  Sometimes those who wear headphones are not always conscious of how loud their music is.  However, there is no excuse for those who intentionally mark their public confined territory by pumping up their laptop stereo.  I do not classify you as cool and edgy but more so as a selfish narcissist.

I generally hate to confront strangers, so when these incidents occur, I usually leave my seat for another table on the opposite side of building.  Now is the time where I turn this ethical dilemma to you dear thoughtful readers.  What is the best call for action?  Should I confront said ghettoblasters or speak to the store managers?  Should corporations provide rules and regulations against blaring music being played by customers in their stores?  

Starbucks, the Endangered Third Place

A third place is defined as a building or space that produces community.  Unlike the first place (home) or second place (workspace), the third place has become harder to define or control in this virtual society.   Traditionally, it was common for the local bar or coffee shop to serve such a purpose.  Throughout the past three decades, Starbucks has held the responsibility of serving as a worldwide “third place.”  Will Starbucks continue to create a mass-produced authentic image or eventually become an extinct corporate third place? 

Although I will always prefer to support local independent coffee shops, sometimes Starbucks can be wildly convenient.  Because Starbucks occupies 11,100 stores nationwide, I know I will always remain walking distance from a local chain.  In addition, I always seem to retain a Starbucks gift card in my wallet from each year’s Christmas gathering.

Throughout my adolescence into adulthood, I have overheard life-changing conversations at Starbucks from strangers sitting adjacent to me.  I have witnessed first dates, bible studies, job interviews and work-related meetings.  (Apparently, Starbucks functions as a second place as well.)  I’m sure you can recall a milestone you have celebrated at Starbucks yourself. 

Even when I choose not to support Starbucks, I cannot deny the corporation’s influence.  In the last decade or so, several restaurants have undergone renovations to encourage intimacy and warmth a la Starbucks.  Even the fast food giant McDonalds have revamped their entire in-store look and feel to attract Starbucks customers or inspiring urban dwellers.  Not only has Starbucks changed the game amongst other eateries, mega churches have redesigned their structures by providing coffee shops of their own. 

Although I cannot ignore Starbucks' impact on society, I feel as though the cozy consumer experience has lessened throughout the years.  Anytime I visit a Starbucks nowadays, there are significantly less seats and tables available to accommodate the herd of consumers.  (I have a hunch that this may be intentional.)  It makes me feel as though I am not valued as a coffee enthusiast but simply as a customer that needs to be ushered out the door to make room for the next sizable herd.  The Starbucks delivery service set for next year may surely amplify the (already) congenial but distant customer service.  

The Starbucks’ delivery service won’t launch until 2015, therefore, it is difficult to predict how this business plan may affect the corporation’s third place appeal.  I also cannot yet vet the quality of the product after its timely trek to your office.  

The public has spoken and they want instant gratification…and convenience.  A personal relationship and rapport with your favorite barista is not the priority it once was.  Instead, we want a personal relationship with our Starbucks apps.

Starbucks had already stirred a third place controversy when the business opened its first drive thru.  Since then, Starbucks has lost its value in the eyes of thousands of faithful customers.  (Not that this has ever hurt Starbucks’ business.)  Let’s be honest with ourselves and realize that Starbucks has always been a fast food corporation essentially.  

I don't know what the future holds for Starbucks but I am certain they will survive by expanding its brand, expansive menu and its savvy (but often times impersonal) business tactics.  However, for those of us that desire a genuine sense of community, it is up to city planners, aspiring business owners and artists to develop a local third place in which their city can boastfully call their own.