The word “catalyst”

[Hyacinth]

I’m trying to think of a pop culture reference (movie, tv show) to help describe the word catalyst (not necessarily in the chemical reaction sense, the more general “change agent” meaning). Anyone have anything?

Edited September 2, 2021 by Hyacinth

[elegantlion]

How about "The pandemic was the catalyst for more parents to choose homeschooling." 

for more pop culture appropriate: "Shows like Game of Thrones and Vikings were the catalyst to get more people interested in medieval history." 

[Jean in Newcastle]

Dr. Seuss's "The Lorax" has been a catalyst for environmental action. 

[Terabith]

Well, Robin Hobb wrote a whole like 9 book series that feature a prophet and his catalyst?

[SKL]

In my industry, we refer to certain investments as "catalysts" for broader community development.  For example, an investor buys and fixes up an old building, and the space is used for a community health clinic, ethnic grocery store, and innovative small business incubator.  The investment perks up the depressed streetscape, brings new people to the area, provides needed goods and services, creates jobs, and [as "catalyst"] inspires other investors to fix up or build additional business or community spaces.  Pretty soon it's a neat place to hang out.