In Japan, there is a business called Rental Family.

For a few thousand dollars, anyone can borrow parents, children, brothers, sisters or any other relative for a couple of hours and spend time with them as if they were their real families.

The rented family members are trained actors who simulate an authentic family by calling their clients by familiar names and referring to other fictitious family members. The business, according to Tokyo Broadcasting System, cannot keep up with the demand.

The family here is a simulacra of the television image of a happy family. Senior, childless couples, who comprise most of the client list of this business, do their best to enjoy these simulacra.

These simulated families exemplify a culture functioning without any content. The protocol of simulation, a facade, and the exchange of economical signs (money) has replaced the substance of blood.

There are other examples . . .