Philippine Popular Culture – Lecture Review

25 question-and-answer flashcards covering definitions, types of culture, sociological views, characteristics, impacts, and elements of popular culture as presented in the lecture.

How is “culture” generally defined in the lecture?

As the “ways of life” of an entire society, including codes of manner, language, religion, rituals, arts, beliefs, and institutions passed from generation to generation.

According to the notes, why is popular culture also called “mass culture”?

Because it is consumed and influenced by a large audience.

What did Edward Taylor say about culture?

He defined culture as ‘the complex whole which includes knowledge, belief, art, morals, law, custom, and any other capabilities and habits acquired by man as a member of society.’

From which Latin word does ‘culture’ originate and what does it mean?

From the Latin word ‘cultura,’ meaning ‘to cultivate.’

What is folk culture according to the lecture?

Culture perceived by local people, made up of everyday practices, traditions, and customs shared within a local community.

How is high culture characterized in the notes?

As cultural products regarded as the pinnacle of creative achievement and holding higher status in elite society, e.g., classical music or sculptures.

What is the basic description of pop culture provided in the lecture?

It encompasses experiences widely accepted and spread by society at large.

In sociological terms, what distinguishes material culture from non-material culture?

Material culture is tangible—buildings, technology, objects—while non-material culture is intangible—values, beliefs, language, customs, norms.

Why do sociologists consider material and non-material culture ‘intimately connected’?

Because material culture is shaped by non-material culture; what people believe determines how they behave and what they create.

What positive view about culture did Émile Durkheim hold?

He believed both material and non-material cultural aspects are valuable because they hold society together.

What critical perspective on culture was offered by Karl Marx?

He argued that a small group controls how people think and believe, using culture to maintain power (e.g., the idea that ‘if you work hard you will be successful’).

List four characteristics of culture mentioned in the lecture.

Culture is acquired/learned, communal, predicated on symbols, characterized by integration, and dynamic.

Name two societal impacts of culture discussed in class.

Reflection of society; shaping societal norms and values. (Other noted impacts include identity formation, social commentary, cultural exchange, economic drive, entertainment/stress relief.)

Give two positive impacts of pop culture highlighted in the notes.

It promotes diversity and inclusivity, and it raises social awareness.

What is a negative impact of pop culture mentioned in the lecture?

Exposure to certain content (e.g., violence) that can encourage negative behaviors.

According to the lecture, what are the main elements of pop culture under ‘Entertainment’?

Film and television, music, video games, literature, theatre, and performing arts.

Which pop-culture element covers ‘clothing trends, hair, makeup, and accessories’?

Fashion and styles.

Social media, news, advertising, slang, and language fall under which element of pop culture?

Media and communication.

Which element of pop culture includes ‘public figures, gossip, and tabloids’?

Celebrity culture.

Gadgets and digital trends are part of which pop-culture element?

Technology.

Dietary fads and trendy cuisine belong to which pop-culture element?

Foods and drinks.

What does the term ‘popular’ imply in the context of culture?

That it is acknowledged and known by a large audience.

How does pop culture contribute to ‘identity formation and belonging,’ as stated in the notes?

By providing shared references and experiences that help individuals connect with groups and society.

What role does pop culture play as an ‘economic driver’?

It generates revenue through media, entertainment, fashion, technology, and related industries.

Explain the phrase ‘culture is predicted on symbols.’

Culture relies on shared symbols—words, gestures, icons—that carry specific meanings understood within a society.