Defining Pop Culture

Introduction to Popular Culture Studies

• Professor: Scott Myers

• Course: Humanities 150: Popular Culture Studies

• Welcome message and overview of course focus on popular culture.

• The importance of reading with a critical eye and questioning definitions and concepts presented.

Definition of Popular Culture

• Author of Reference: Marcel Denis

• Popular culture as a vital aspect of global culture:

  • Influence on global perceptions and beliefs.

  • Major focus on American popular culture in the course.

Key Highlights of Denis's Definition

• Comprehensive Definition:

  • Organizes and stabilizes communal life through:

    • Beliefs

    • Rituals

    • Rights

    • Performances

    • Art forms

    • Symbols

    • Language

    • Clothing

    • Food

    • Music

    • Dance

    • Other human expressive and communicative pursuits

• Represents the totality of what makes us human.

Cultural Class Distinction

• Historical perception of high culture vs. low culture:

  • High culture associated with the elite.

  • Low culture, or popular culture, represents the interests of the masses.

• Emergence of aesthetic movements and changes in perceptions of quality in art/music.

Evolution of Popular Culture

• 1920s Historical Context:

  • Post-World War I recovery led to increased cultural access.

  • Rise of disposable income allowed diverse cultural choices today.

• Business and Media Collaboration:

  • Development of a media-technology-business partnership.

  • Influence of modern media landscapes, including social media.

Influence of Popular Culture

• Significant impact on modern society:

  • Broader appeal than traditional high culture (art, literature, classical music).

  • Seen as more influential on global perception and culture.

Cultural Eras and Identification

• Popular culture often defines historical periods:

  • Examples include:

    • Flapper Era

    • Swinger Era

    • Hippie Era

    • Disco Era

    • Punk Era

    • Pop Era

• Eras can be identified by both cultural phenomena and global events.

Discussion Prompt

• Consider what name might apply to the current era based on existing influences.

• Assignment: How will future historians label this time?

• Engage with the concept of popular culture and its defining characteristics.