After reading Chapter 1 of Wilson and Wilson and the corresponding lecture post, ask yourself “What are some examples of elite and popular culture?” Make sure that you do not identify examples from the chapter or from the “Culture as Skyscraper” reading. However, you can refer to the readings to help you generate ideas.
- Identify one example of something that, in your opinion, is a part of elite culture or high culture. Explain why you think your selection is more a part of the culture of the rich, powerful, and/or highly educated.
- Next, identify at least two examples of things that are a part of our popular culture, items that are accessible and enjoyed by the general population. Explain your selection.
- Finally, think about the criticisms of popular culture. Critics often claim that much of our entertainment is mindless, with no educational or artistic value. If you recall, this less respected part of popular culture is known as low culture in the “Culture as Skyscraper” reading. Some would say, for example, that “Jersey Shore” is a good example of low culture. Identify one example of something that, in your opinion, might be considered a part of low culture and explain your choice.
- Be sure to explain why you made the choices that you made. For example, simply saying that a certain television show is a part of our popular culture or a part of low culture isn’t enough. You must tell me why you think your chosen subject, for example, is a part of contemporary popular culture. Be specific.
Keep in mind that your initial post must be completed by Wednesday and that it must be at least 3-4 complete paragraphs. APA or MLA Format
