Assignment Paper-205

This Blog is an Assignment of Paper no:205 Cultural Studies. In this assignment I am dealing with the topic of Culture studies and Popular culture.

Culture studies and Popular culture

Personal Details:-

Name: Drashti Joshi

Batch: M.A. Sem.3 (2022-2024) 

Enrollment N/o.: 4069206420220016

Roll N/o.: 05

E-mail Address: drashtijoshi582@gmail.com

Assignment Details:-

Topic:- Culture studies and Popular culture  

Paper: 205

Subject code & Paper N/o.: 22410 

Paper Name:- Cultural Studies

Submitted to: Smt. S.B. Gardi Department of English M.K.B.U. 

Date of submission: 27 November 2023

Points to Ponder:- 

• Introduction

• What is Cultural Studies?

• What is Popular Culture?

• Example of Popular Culture

• Conclusion

Abstract:-

This study explores the symbiotic relationship between cultural studies and popular culture. Cultural studies, drawing from multiple disciplines, analyses power structures and identity formation. Concurrently, popular culture, a dynamic reflection of societal preferences, serves as a rich field for cultural studies research. This paper navigates this interplay, showcasing how cultural studies lenses dissect media representations and societal issues within popular culture, providing a nuanced understanding of the reciprocal influence between cultural analysis and societal dynamics.

Keywords:- Cultural Studies, Popular Culture, Interdisciplinary, Power Relations, Identity Formation, Media Representations, Societal Dynamics.

Introduction:-

“cultural studies understands popular culture to be an arena of consent and resistance in the struggle over cultural meaning”

Popular culture is the set of practices, beliefs, and objects that embody the most broadly shared meanings of a social system. It includes media objects, entertainment and leisure, fashion and trends, and linguistic conventions, among other things. Popular culture is usually associated with either mass culture or folk culture, and differentiated from high culture and various institutional cultures (political culture, educational culture, legal culture, etc.). The association of popular culture with mass culture leads to a focus on the position of popular culture within a capitalist mode of economic production. (Kidd)

Through this economic lens, popular culture is seen as a set of commodities produced through capitalistic processes driven by a profit motive and sold to consumers. In contrast, the association of popular culture with folk culture leads to a focus on subcultures such as youth cultures or ethnic cultures. Through this subculture lens, popular culture is seen as a set of practices by artists or other kinds of culture makers that result in performances and objects that are received and interpreted by audiences, both within and beyond the subcultural group. 

The study of popular culture has come of age, primarily as it is now a deeply rooted area of concern for the well-established domain of cultural studies. Popular culture may be taken to be “the culture that appeals to, or that is most comprehensible by, the general public”. (Storey)

What is Cultural Studies?

Cultural studies is a relatively new interdisciplinary field of study, which came into being in the UK in the post-war years. It emerged out of a perceived necessity on the part of two of its founding figures, Raymond Williams and Richard Hoggart. It came to fruition, however, in circumstances that, as its third founding figure Stuart Hall often acknowledged, contested its legitimacy. (McRobbie)

Why did it seem necessary to give an academic label to the kind of research Williams, Hoggart and then Hall were engaged in? Each of these thinkers knew there was a minor tradition of studying culture ‘from below’; that is, the cultural practices and rituals of everyday life associated with ordinary people, or with groups and populations who did not belong to the powerful social classes or to the political elites. All three figures were trained in English Literature. Williams looked to writers like D H Lawrence and Thomas Hardy, whose work drew on experiences of poor mining or farming communities as they were undergoing transitions and displacement brought about by urban modernity. Richard Hoggart grew up in a working-class neighbourhood in Leeds and went on to become a ‘scholarship boy’. He produced what quickly came to be seen as a classic work, puzzlingly titled The Uses of Literacy, which was based partly on his personal memory of the habits, rituals and everyday lives of the people who lived in his own neighbourhood from the interwar period through to the post-war years. (McRobbie)

Cultural studies is an interdisciplinary academic field that emerged in the mid-20th century. It involves the critical analysis and examination of culture in its various forms, including literature, media, art, music, and everyday practices. Cultural studies seeks to understand how culture shapes and is shaped by social, political, economic, and historical contexts.

Key aspects of cultural studies include:

1. Interdisciplinarity: 

Cultural studies draws on insights and methodologies from various disciplines such as sociology, anthropology, literary theory, media studies, and history. This interdisciplinary approach allows scholars to explore culture from multiple perspectives.

2. Power Relations: 

Cultural studies often focuses on power dynamics within culture, examining how certain groups or ideologies dominate and influence others. Concepts like hegemony and resistance are crucial in understanding these power relations.

3. Identity and Representation: 

The field explores how cultural products and practices contribute to the construction of individual and group identities. This includes the study of how different social groups are represented in media and other cultural forms.

4. Ideology:

Cultural studies analyses the ideologies embedded in cultural artefacts. It investigates how cultural texts reflect and perpetuate societal beliefs, values, and norms, as well as how these ideologies can be contested or subverted.

5. Cultural Identity: 

Examining how individuals and communities define themselves through cultural practices and symbols is a central theme. Cultural studies acknowledges the fluid and dynamic nature of cultural identity.

6. Social Change: 

Scholars in cultural studies are often interested in how cultural practices contribute to or resist broader social changes. This involves studying the ways in which culture interacts with and influences societal structures and institutions.

Overall, cultural studies provides a framework for understanding the complex relationship between culture and society. It encourages a critical examination of cultural phenomena and challenges traditional disciplinary boundaries, fostering a holistic approach to the study of human expression and meaning-making.

According to cultural studies, culture is not understood just as a text or an artistic product like a movie, music, play or book, but it is a dynamic and complexly patterned way of life. Cultural studies will explore a wide variety of cultural forms and practices; this includes our race, nation, class, gender, what we consume, popular media, popular culture, the world we live in, and the ideologies that govern us. Cultural studies will also give you the tool to analyse cultural practices, representations, different identities, and also different rituals and beliefs. (Vijay)

“Cultural studies is composed of elements of Marxism, new historicism, feminism, gender studies, anthropology, studies of race and ethnicity, film theory, sociology, urban studies, public policy studies, popular culture, and postcolonial studies.” -Wilfred L. Guerin

What is Popular Culture?:-

Pop culture is easily accessible to the masses. It is a subset of culture that the majority participates in, making it a familiar topic of conversation within mainstream society. For example, pop music, short for popular music, is a type of pop culture, and the majority of Americans enjoy listening to and talking about pop music on a daily basis. In the 80s, Michael Jackson was the King of Pop. In the 90s, Mariah Carey ruled the scene, and today, Beyonce has taken the reins. In this case, the United States is the larger culture, and pop is a subset of American culture that can be enjoyed by most in U.S. society.

Pop culture is often spread via media including, radio, television, news, and more commonly in today's world, social media, such as Facebook and Twitter. This ease of information flow is what makes pop culture so accessible; high culture requires wealth for attendance, but pop culture simply requires turning on the television, or just taking a look at the nearest magazines and billboards. And while pop culture is considered low-brow when compared to the refined tastes of high culture, the fact is that pop culture has just as much, if not more, value in society. High culture may be associated with education, but when teachers make pop culture references in their lessons, students are more likely to listen as they find the material to be relatable and relevant. Nowadays, it's common for curriculums to include hip hop and rap as a means for teaching language, literature, and history, for example. (DelValley)

The following are examples of pop culture in today's world:

• Basketball, both College and the NBA

• Reality television, such as Survivor or Keeping Up With the Kardashians

• Singing competitions like American Idol or The Voice

• Female rap, such as that of Nicki Minaj and Cardi B

• K-pop Bands, such as Blackpink and BTS

• Fast food such as McDonald's, Subway, or Chick-fil-A

• Role Playing Games like Dungeons & Dragons

• Korean Dramas like Squid Game

Popular culture (sometimes also referred to as mass culture or mass media) refers to the sets of beliefs, practices, and cultural objects of a society. Popular Culture Studies overlaps considerably with Material Culture Studies, which examines the social significance of the manufacture, industry, trade, value, and consumption of material objects. 

Examples of Popular Culture:-

Popular culture encompasses a wide range of phenomena that capture the attention and interest of a large audience. Examples of popular culture can include:

1. Movies and Television Shows: Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU):

A multi-billion-dollar film franchise that interconnects superhero narratives, featuring iconic characters like Iron Man, Thor, and Black Panther. The MCU has had a significant impact on global pop culture.

2. Music: Taylor Swift's Pop Dominance: 

Taylor Swift, known for her catchy pop anthems and autobiographical songwriting, has become a global pop sensation, influencing contemporary music trends and amassing a massive fan base.

3. Fashion Trends: Athleisure Wear: 

The fusion of athletic and leisure clothing, exemplified by brands like Nike and Lululemon. This trend reflects a shift toward comfortable yet stylish clothing for various occasions beyond the gym.

4. Social Media: Instagram Reels: 

Short-form video challenges on Instagram, such as dance trends or comedy skits, often go viral and influence mainstream culture. These challenges are participatory and have a global impact.

5. Sports: FIFA World Cup: 

The premier international football (soccer) tournament captivates a global audience, fostering a shared passion for the sport and generating cultural moments that transcend national boundaries.

6. Technology: Smartphone Revolution: 

The widespread adoption of smartphones has transformed how people communicate, access information, and engage with entertainment. Brands like Apple's iPhone have become iconic symbols of this technological shift.

7. Celebrities: Elon Musk's Entrepreneurial Persona: 

Elon Musk, known for his role in founding and leading companies like Tesla and SpaceX, has become a charismatic and influential figure, shaping discussions about technology, space exploration, and the future.

8. Gaming: Fortnite Phenomenon:

The online multiplayer game Fortnite gained immense popularity, becoming a cultural phenomenon with its unique blend of gaming, social interaction, and in-game events. It has redefined gaming experiences for a diverse audience.

These examples highlight the depth and impact of popular culture, showcasing how various elements permeate daily life and contribute to the formation of shared experiences and cultural identity on a global scale.

Conclusion:-

In conclusion, the dynamic and ever-evolving landscape of popular culture serves as a captivating mirror reflecting the shared interests, values, and trends of a diverse global audience. From blockbuster films and chart-topping music to viral social media challenges and influential technological innovations, these examples underscore the profound influence of popular culture in shaping our collective experiences. As a lens through which we view societal shifts, cultural studies provide valuable insights into the intricate connections between culture, identity, and power dynamics. In appreciating the richness of popular culture, we gain a deeper understanding of the threads that weave our global tapestry, illustrating how these cultural phenomena not only mirror our present but also contribute to the ongoing narrative of human expression and interconnectedness.

References:-

Currier, Lindsey. “Cultural Studies - A Definition - TEWWG.” TEWWG - Cultural Studies Lens, https://theireyes-cultural.weebly.com/cultural-studies---a-definition.html. Accessed 25 November 2023.

DelValley, Nichole. “High and Popular Culture | Definition & Examples - Video & Lesson Transcript.” Study.com, https://study.com/academy/lesson/cultural-diversity-ethnocentrism-cultural-relativism-cultural-subsets.html. Accessed 25 November 2023.

Kidd, Dustin. “Popular Culture - Sociology.” Oxford Bibliographies, 28 February 2017, https://www.oxfordbibliographies.com/display/document/obo-9780199756384/obo-9780199756384-0193.xml. Accessed 24 November 2023.

McRobbie, Angela. “What is cultural studies?” The British Academy, 18 August 2020, https://www.thebritishacademy.ac.uk/blog/what-is-cultural-studies/. Accessed 25 November 2023.

Storey, John. “Making Sense of Popular Culture.” Cambridge Scholars Publishing, https://www.cambridgescholars.com/resources/pdfs/978-1-4438-5051-3-sample.pdf. Accessed 24 November 2023.

Vijay, Sayant. “What is Cultural Studies?” TC Global, 19 May 2022, https://tcglobal.com/what-is-cultural-studies/. Accessed 25 November 2023.

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Assignment Paper-204

This Blog is an Assignment of Paper no:204 Contemporary Western Theories and Film Studies. In this assignment I am dealing with the topic of Market Fundamentalism.

Marxism

Personal Details:-

Name: Drashti Joshi

Batch: M.A. Sem.3 (2022-2024) 

Enrollment N/o.: 4069206420220016

Roll N/o.: 05

E-mail Address: drashtijoshi582@gmail.com

Assignment Details:-

Topic:- Marxism 

Paper: 204

Subject code & Paper N/o.: 22409  

Paper Name:- Contemporary Western Theories and Film Studies  

Submitted to: Smt. S.B. Gardi Department of English M.K.B.U. 

Date of submission: 27 November 2023

Points to Ponder:- 

• Introduction

• What is Marxism?

• Definition of Marxism

• Class conflict in Marxism

• Example of Marxism

• Conclusion

Abstract:-

This analysis applies Marxist theory to examine socio-economic themes in a contemporary context. Focusing on class struggle, economic inequality, and critiques of capitalism, the study delves into various aspects without specific reference to a movie. Key points include the delineation of class structures, exploitation, and revolutionary elements. Symbolism and allegory are explored to reveal broader Marxist concepts, while the critique of capitalism is considered alongside suggestions for alternative socio-economic structures. The analysis also examines historical context, character agency in relation to class positions, and the resolution of class conflicts, providing a nuanced understanding of how these themes manifest in a socio-economic context.

Keywords:- Marxist analysis, Class struggle, Economic inequality, Critic of Capitalism.

Introduction:-

Marxism refers to the social, political and economic principles laid down by Karl Marx. The philosophy is named after the economist and philosopher Karl Marx. The philosopher was famous for his theories on capitalism and communism.Karl Marx believed that the capitalist system is inherently self-destructive. This is because the alienation and exploitation of the worker under a capitalist society would inevitably drive the working class to rebel against the owners and seize control of the means of production.The revolution will shift the power to the working class and in turn lead to social ownership of the means of production, which according to Marxism is the essential element in the transformation of society. Marx mentioned that the power relationships between capitalists and workers would inherently lead to the exploitation of workers by private enterprises and hence would inevitably create class conflict.

What is Marxism?:-

• Marxism is a social, political, and economic philosophy named after Karl Marx (1818-1883). Marxism has had a great historical influence on the organisation of countries, as well as numerous theories in sociology.

• In sociology, Marxism has manifested as a method for socioeconomic analysis. Using the methods of Marxism, sociologists can outline the dominant power structures of society and examine their effects on how people within society see power structures.

• Marx defined the value of a good in terms of the amount of labour needed to produce it. This is called the Labor Theory of Value.

• Marxism draws a differentiation between two groups of people in society: the proletariat and the bourgeoisie. According to Marx, the bourgeoisie exploited the labour of the proletariat for profit.

• The bourgeoisie is also differentiated from the proletariat for owning the means of production — everything needed to produce goods in a society. This inability to control their own work results in alienation among the proletariat and a loss of creative autonomy. (Nickerson)

“Marxism itself can be considered to be both a political philosophy and a sociological method.”

With the emergence of Industrial Revolution, a new system of production came into existence in the society and that was capitalism. The capitalistic system gave rise to two classes - owners’ class and workers' class. The capitalists were men of wealth, power and property and they started to exploit the workers. They committed injustice upon the workers' class as a result of which the atmosphere of unrest and displeasure got aroused in the workers' class. A large number of philosophers and thinkers got united against the injustice and exploitation done by the capitalists during this period. Among these philosophers and thinkers, the German philosopher, Karl Marx, was a leading figure. Karl Marx is the pioneer of modern communist philosophy. He is a philosopher and thinker who led the struggle against injustice. He gave a new turn to the conflict between capitalists and workers. Along With Friedrich Engels, he supported all movements for the amelioration of workers' conditions and for their democratic rights. He thoroughly devoted himself to the welfare and upliftment of this class. (“Marxism: Definition and Meaning”)

In his. philosophy, Marx believed that labour, value and materialism are the basic things and further maintained that labour of the worker should be honoured with its due returns. He also remarked that the progress of society is possible with the help of workers' labour only. Therefore, the workers must get a fair share of their labour in the form of wages for maintaining their expenses on food, shelter, clothing, education for children etc. which will bring happiness to the worker and his family. It is for the sake of giving comfort to him and to his family the worker puts his labour in the system of production.

The word 'Marxism' derives its name from that of Karl Marx, a famous German economist and social philosopher of the 19th century. Marx is the chief exponent of this theory. In a sense 'Marxism' is a body of doctrine developed by Karl Marx and to a lesser extent, by Friedrich Engels in the middle of the 19th century and consists originally of three interrelated ideas - philosophical view of man, a theory of history and an economic and political programme. During his time, Marx attempted to maintain consistency and coherence among these ideas. However, after the death of Marx, many new interpretations became a part of this doctrine.

Definition of Marxism:-

Here is definition which is given by John Lewis,

Marxism is the highest development of humanism, it is the form in which the age-long contradiction between human advance and human subjection is resolved, it is the last rebellion of the oppressed, and the only one in which success is possible. It takes its origin from the rebellion of man against inhuman conditions and its single aim is the recovery of man's lost humanity. This is the very essence of humanism and Marxism is humanism in its contemporary form. (Lewis)

Class conflict in Marxism:-

It is important to recognize that Marx viewed the structure of society in relation to its major classes, and the struggle between them as the engine of change in this structure. His was no equilibrium or consensus theory. Conflict was not deviational within society's structure, nor were classes functional elements maintaining the system. The structure itself was a derivative of an ingredient in the struggle of classes. His was a conflict view of modern (nineteenth century) society. The key to understanding Marx is his class definition. A class is defined by the ownership of property. Such ownership vests a person with the power to exclude others from the property and to use it for personal purposes. In relation to property there are three great classes of society: the bourgeoisie (who own the means of production such as machinery and factory buildings, and whose source of income is profit), landowners (whose income is rent), and the proletariat (who own their labour and sell it for a wage).

Class thus is determined by property, not by income or status. These are determined by distribution and consumption, which itself ultimately reflects the production and power relations of classes. The social conditions of bourgeoisie production are defined by bourgeois property. Class is therefore a theoretical and formal relationship among individuals. The force transforming latent class membership into a struggle of classes is class interest. Out of similar class situations, individuals come to act similarly. They develop a mutual dependence, a community, a shared interest interrelated with a common income of profit or of wages. From this common interest classes are formed, and for Marx, individuals form classes to the extent that their interests engage them in a struggle with the opposite class. (Rummel)

Overall, there are six elements in Marx's view of class conflict.

• Classes are authority relationships based on property ownership.

• A class defines groupings of individuals with shared life situations, thus interests.

• Classes are naturally antagonistic by virtue of their interests.

• Imminent within modern society is the growth of two antagonistic classes and their struggle, which eventually absorbs all social relations.

• Political organisation and Power is an instrumentality of class struggle, and reigning ideas are its reflection.

• Structural change is a consequence of the class struggle.

In the Communist Manifesto Marx says, "The history of all hitherto existing society is the history of class struggle." The concept of class struggle or class war is very important in Marx's theory. It originated from Marx's theories of dialectical materialism, historical materialism and surplus value. Marx says that in the history of human society, there has been war or struggle between two classes from the very beginning. Every society includes two classes having hatred or antagonism against each other. For example, the landowner exploits the landless; the factory owners exploit the workers. In the 'Communist Manifesto' Marx says: 

Freeman and slave, patrician and plebeian, lord and serf, guild master and journeyman, in a word, oppressor and oppressed, stood in constant opposition to one another, carried on uninterrupted, now hidden and now open fight, a fight that each time ended either in a revolutionary reconstitution of society at large or in the common ruin of the contending classes. 

In Marx's theory class structure is dependent upon the production forces of society. 

Examples of Marxism:-

Marxist literary criticism examines literature from the perspective of Marxist theory, which is rooted in the ideas of Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels. It focuses on the social, economic, and political aspects of a society and how these factors influence and are reflected in literature. Here are some examples of literature that can be analysed through a Marxist lens:

1. "The Communist Manifesto" by Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels (1848):

This seminal work itself provides a foundation for understanding Marxism and can be analysed for its influence on subsequent literature.

2. "The Grapes of Wrath" by John Steinbeck (1939):

Steinbeck's novel explores the plight of the Joad family during the Great Depression, addressing themes of social injustice, exploitation of the working class, and the impact of capitalism.

3. "Animal Farm" by George Orwell (1945):

Although Orwell was critical of the Soviet Union, "Animal Farm" is often interpreted as a critique of the corruption of socialist ideals. It explores the dynamics of power and class struggle.

4. "The Jungle" by Upton Sinclair (1906):

Sinclair's novel exposes the harsh conditions of the meatpacking industry in Chicago and the exploitation of immigrant workers. It highlights the dehumanizing effects of capitalism.

5. "The Ragged-Trousered Philanthropists" by Robert Tressell (1914):

This novel deals with the lives of a group of working-class painters and decorators in England. It explores economic inequality, exploitation, and the struggle of the working class.

6. "One Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich" by Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn (1962):

Solzhenitsyn's novel depicts a day in the life of a prisoner in a Soviet labour camp. It can be analysed for its portrayal of the dehumanising effects of oppressive political and economic systems.

7. "The Handmaid's Tale" by Margaret Atwood (1985):

Atwood's dystopian novel explores themes of power, control, and oppression in a theocratic society. It can be interpreted through a Marxist lens to analyse the hierarchical structure and exploitation of certain social classes.

8. "In Dubious Battle" by John Steinbeck (1936):

Another work by Steinbeck, this novel focuses on the struggles of labour organisers in California during the 1930s. It delves into the dynamics of class conflict and the exploitation of workers.

9. "The Iron Heel" by Jack London (1908):

London's novel is a dystopian narrative that explores the rise of an oligarchy dictatorship in the United States. It addresses themes of class struggle, inequality, and the concentration of power.

These examples demonstrate how literature can be analysed through a Marxist lens to uncover underlying social, economic, and political issues and critique the structures that perpetuate inequality.

Conclusion:- 

In essence, Marxism is a comprehensive ideology encompassing political and economic theories articulated by Karl Marx and his adherents. At its core, it advocates for the eradication of private ownership of the means of production. The central tenets of Marxism envision a society where work and sustenance are guaranteed for all, reflecting a commitment to broader societal welfare. Additionally, Marxism foresees a societal framework where the rule is vested in the masses, promoting a vision of collective governance and equitable distribution of resources.

References:-

Lewis, John. Marxism & the Open Mind. Greenwood Press, 1973.  Accessed 24 November 2023.

“Marxism: Definition and Meaning.” http://www.sfsmahavidyalaya.ac.in/studyMaterial/5746Sem-6.-Dse-3.-Marxism-10-05-2020%20(1).pdf. Accessed 24 November 2023.

Nickerson, Charlotte. “Marxism: Definition, Theory, Ideology, Examples, & Facts.” Simply Psychology, 5 October 2023, https://www.simplypsychology.org/marxism.html. Accessed 24 November 2023.

Rummel, RJ. “MARXISM AND CLASS CONFLICT.” University of Hawaii System, https://www.hawaii.edu/powerkills/CIP.CHAP5.HTM. Accessed 24 November 2023.

Sweta. “Marxism - Definition, What is Marxism, Advantages of Marxism, and Latest News.” ClearTax, https://cleartax.in/glossary/marxism/. Accessed 24 November 2023.

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