Alcohol. Manliness. Flushable Wipes. Since When Are These ‘Scams’?

The article explores how the term "scam" has evolved to describe any system where someone profits at another's expense, including long-standing practices like alcohol marketing and even flushable wipes. This shift in terminology highlights a growing skepticism in American culture about what constitutes fair play and trust. It's a broader commentary on how perceptions of deception are expanding, reflecting deeper societal changes and concerns about transparency and ethics. For a deeper dive, check out the full piece in The New York Times Magazine.