Page 68 - PowerE-L05-F

Lesson 17

Pop Culture

By definition, popular culture or pop culture is the
breadth of ideas, perspectives, attitudes, images and
other phenomena that are preferred n the mainstream
of a given culture. Since the early 20th century, it

has been greatly influenced by mass media and has
permeated the everyday lives of society. It is mani-
fested in preference and the acceptance or rejection
of it in various subjects as entertainment, lifestyle,

food, sports, music, film and literature. In contrast,
popular culture is the culture of the lower classes while the ruling class has an even elitist
“high culture”. In entertainment, the contribution of pop culture is the existence of comput-
ers, televisions and radios. In fashion, popular culture is reflected on the dress we wear

and the accessories we use. We would usually go for branded stuffs. Even in food, the
popular culture has influenced people on what to eat. Most people go for fast foods. In
lifestyles, cars, motor bikes and mobile phones are hot and so with the tattoos and body
piercing. In music, people are very much into pop, rap and soul. Popular places include

malls, bars, pubs, bowling alleys and poolrooms. The popular sports are skateboarding,
basketball, baseball, hockey, soccer, surfing, football and others. However, prevailing pop
culture has its positive and negative effects in the society. Positively, with pop culture, ev-
eryone feels good about him or herself. The trend is follow what is in but there are instances

when the dominating pop culture has its negative effects on people. One is expensive life-
style trying to put up with the trend. Another is pop culture showing decadency at times.

Comprehension

1. What classes in society patronize popular culture?
2. Name some of the things that reflect pop culture.

Questions

1. What are some forms of mass media that help in spreading of pop culture?
2. What are some of the negative effects of pop culture on society?

Vocabulary & Expressions

breadth - the scope of something
perspective - way of considering an event or issue; point of view
permeate - to enter something and spread it throughout
mainstream - reflecting the most broadly accepted views or preference of a nation or culture
decadency - a process of regression in society, particularly in its morals

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