- How has pop culture historically dealt with ‘otherness’ in society as it relates to
gender, class and race? What are some examples we have seen? Historically speaking,
how has pop culture influenced our ideas and opinions about ‘otherness’? What are some
real life implications of how pop culture addresses these issues? Where are we at now in
regards to ‘otherness’ and pop culture? Provide examples from class and readings. - Discuss the idea of pop culture in the age of the internet. What are some of the
positive, and negative aspects? Explain the idea of convergence & participatory cultures,
and technology as it specifically relates to Henry Jenkins and Sherry Turkle. Do you
agree or disagree with them? How are these ‘tools and toys’ of media and information
and technology shaping our culture? How have they historically? Provide examples from
class and readings. - Looking at all that we have discussed this semester, explain the idea of “American
duality” or contradictions in our popular culture: what is at the heart of them? What do
they reflect? How do they relate to some of the core values of American society? Where
have we seen individuals challenge them? Provide examples and think in terms of
everything we have learned in class. NOTE: this is NOT just about the duality myth,
though you can mention that. What other contradictory practices have you noticed? - Overall, are you optimistic or pessimistic about the future of pop culture, and why?
Given that pop culture isn’t going anywhere, and, if anything, is only becoming more
prominent in our culture, how do we best manage it? How do we deal with the negative
aspects of it while also promoting the good? Provide examples from class and readings.
Sample Solution
