COMM 3300 – Communication Perspectives of Pop Culture Test 1 Study Guide

These flashcards cover key concepts related to popular culture, including definitions, characteristics, and critical perspectives.

What is popular culture?

Popular culture is widely liked and includes what many people enjoy or consume, such as Taylor Swift and Marvel movies.

How is pop culture mass-produced?

Pop culture is created for large audiences through industrial processes, examples include Netflix and McDonald's.

What does pop culture reflect?

It reflects everyday life and grassroots creativity, as seen in memes, viral TikToks, and street art.

How is pop culture different from high culture?

Pop culture is more accessible than elite art, contrasting examples include reality TV vs. classical opera.

What does it mean for culture to be symbolic?

Everything in culture carries meaning and can be richly symbolic, like a flag representing freedom, pride, and unity.

What is a collective characteristic of culture?

Culture spreads through shared practices within families, social media, and communities.

What are the three processes involved in culture?

Culture involves production (creation), distribution (sharing), and consumption (audience use).

How does social context affect meaning?

Meaning depends on the context and presentation; for example, graffiti in a subway can be seen as vandalism, while in a museum it is considered art.

What is functionalism in society?

Functionalism views society as a system that promotes stability and unity, with media serving functions like advertising and entertainment.

What are rituals of solidarity?

Rituals of solidarity include shared excitement (collective effervescence), emotional energy, and sacred symbols that unite people.

What is an example of a ritual of rebellion?

Events like satire or protests act as safety valves for frustration but help stabilize society by releasing tension.

What is the focus of the Interaction Approach?

The Interaction Approach focuses on micro-level interactions among peers, subcultures, and small groups.

How do group norms influence culture?

Group norms influence individual choices in what people watch, wear, or like.

Who are key people in the spread of trends?

Key people include early adopters, opinion leaders, and market mavens who influence and share product information widely.

What is the Frankfurt School's concept of the culture industry?

The culture industry refers to mass-produced media designed for profit that promotes conformity and distraction.

What does Gramsci's Hegemony theory explain?

Gramsci's Hegemony suggests that dominant ideas become 'common sense,' such as consumerism and gender roles in advertising.

How does cultural context affect meaning?

Cultural context alters interpretation; for instance, a mural on a wall versus being displayed in a gallery changes its perceived meaning.

What role do collective effervescence and emotional energy play in culture?

They create shared energy and lasting excitement among groups, often represented by events like concerts and sports games.

Group Norms & Choices

Peer groups and subcultures shape tastes (music, slang,

fashion).

Interaction vs. Critical

Interaction = micro (peer influence, word-of-mouth); Critical = macro (corporate control, capitalism).

Rituals of Rebellion

Events like Carnival or satire allow temporary rebellion but reinforce stability.