IDOLS

The term idol, in its plural form idols, has multiple meanings. In religious contexts, an idol is an object or image that a deity is believed to inhabit or to which worship is directed. Idolatry refers to reverence of or devotion to such objects, and attitudes toward idols vary widely across religions, with some traditions permitting images and others forbidding them.

In modern usage, an idol is a person—typically a performer or public figure—who is greatly admired. The phrase pop idol is used for celebrities who inspire emulation, and the term is widely used in entertainment media. In Western contexts, talent shows such as American Idol popularized the idea of a contest to discover a star. In East Asia, idols or idol groups are manufactured music acts built by entertainment companies, with emphasis on image, choreographed performances, and close fan engagement.

Idol culture often involves organized fan communities, media production, and marketing ecosystems. Fans may participate in voting, streaming, attending concerts, and creating online content to support their favored performers. While admiration can motivate artistic achievement, there are concerns about pressure, exploitation, and the objectification of young performers.

Etymology: the term comes from Latin idolum, from Greek eidos meaning form or image. The concept appears in many religious and cultural traditions, with different norms about representation and reverence.