Stanford Humanities Center
Yared Avalos Iñiguez is a senior from Hereford Texas, double majoring in Iberian and Latin American Cultures and Public Policy. Yared’s academic journey has been deeply influenced by his personal experiences as a first-generation American and his family's background. He is passionate about exploring the intersections of culture, economics, and public health, particularly in Latin America. Yared’s current honors thesis research examines the cultural and social impact of Coca-Cola on Mexican society, seeking to understand the powerful grip of corporate influence on public health behaviors.
SHC Project
La Invasión Universal: Coca-Cola and the Mexican Imagination
Advisors: Ximena Briceno, Héctor Hoyos
What is the focus of your current research?
My current research focuses on Coca-Cola’s deep-rooted presence in Mexican culture and its implications for public health. I’m examining how Coca-Cola became a staple in Mexican households and the socio-economic and cultural mechanisms that facilitated its rise. By exploring these dynamics, I aim to reveal how corporate interests have fueled sugar addiction in Mexico and analyze how this phenomenon intertwines with issues of accessibility, health, and policy.
What drew you to this topic?
During a visit to Mexico, I was struck by Coca-Cola’s omnipresence—in restaurants, airports, every dinner. It was shocking to see that in some places, Coca-Cola was cheaper and more accessible than water. My own family has struggled with sugar-related health issues, which inspired me to investigate how this accessibility affects Mexican society on a broader scale.
How are you conducting your research?
My research involves both qualitative and quantitative approaches. I’m analyzing marketing trends, culinary traditions, and public health data to track Coca-Cola’s influence in Mexico over time. I’m also reviewing relevant literature and policies to understand the role of cultural representation in fostering Coca-Cola’s presence in everyday Mexican life.
What would people be surprised to learn about the topic you are working on?
People might be surprised to learn the extent of Coca-Cola’s cultural foothold in Mexico. It is deeply entwined with traditions, festivities, and even religious ceremonies. It’s not just a drink—it has become a cultural symbol, representing community and celebration. The magnitude to which it replaces water in many regions is a stark reminder of the health and accessibility challenges within these communities.
In your view, why is it valuable to study this topic?
Studying this topic sheds light on the broader implications of corporate power over public health and cultural practices. It brings into focus how commercial interests can impact societal norms and health outcomes, especially in vulnerable communities. By understanding these dynamics, policymakers and health advocates can work towards more effective strategies for regulating sugar consumption and addressing health inequalities.
How is your honors thesis impacting you academically and/or personally?
Working on this thesis has broadened my understanding of how cultural elements shape public health. Personally, it has made me reflect on my own family’s experiences and recognize the broader implications of accessibility and addiction. Academically, it’s honing my research skills, helping me develop a multidisciplinary approach that I hope to carry into my future studies and professional pursuits.
How do you anticipate the fellowship will be able to support your research?
The fellowship provides valuable support through access to resources and mentorship that are essential for in-depth research. The opportunity to connect with scholars from various fields will help me integrate diverse perspectives and enrich the qualitative dimensions of my project. Additionally, the fellowship’s support will allow me to delve deeper into cultural and historical analysis, enhancing my understanding and enabling me to engage with policy discussions in a more impactful way.
