January 27: Media, Culture, and Society I: Cultural Studies and Popular Cultures

Popular Culture (Raymond Williams)

Culture that is widely used and participated in by the people. It is active, meaning we don't just watch it; we engage with it.

Culture as a Way of Life (Raymond Williams)

A "long thing" that is now or permanent. It is a way of lived media and a form of culture that distinguishes one group from another.

High Culture (Raymond Williams)

Associated with "fine art," classical music, and ballet. It is often used as a way to distinguish people based on economic or social status.

Fan Cultures

A specific example of popular culture. It shows how people use forms of mass culture to create their own communities and entertainment.

Affect

Focuses on bodily sensations and emotions rather than just thoughts. It highlights different ways of being in the world.

Online Intimacy

The ways of using forms of mass culture to create communities and connections through daily digital participation.

Subculture

Culture that challenges the mainstream or "monsters". It focuses on authenticity and specific ways of being in the world.

Commodification and Popular Culture

The process of turning a living culture into a "thing" or product to be sold. It creates "needs" that aren't actually needs.