Gates Essay

The essay by Gates about Michael Jordan and his role as a marketer of consumer goods is, on one level, an enjoyable collection of information about Jordan's history as an endorser of products; but on another level it's trying to account for Jordan's incredible success not only as a basketball player but as an entrepreneur of sorts.  He's also saying something about our consumer culture and the American relationship to sports starts.  As you read the essay, consider Gates' own attitude towards Jordan?  Is it all admiration?  Or is there something else mixed in?  What is your own attitude towards Jordan, both as a sports star and as a sponsor and cultural figure?

This will be a hard essay to summarize.  It doesn't break down easily into parts.  You might rely more on examining the lines your underline.