Subcultures and Cultural Forms

Subcultures

• Subcultures are groups within larger societies with unique beliefs, values, and lifestyles.
• Some subcultures, like those of ethnic minorities, may actively resist dominant culture, termed "subcultures of resistance."
• Examples include skinheads and punk rock.
• Willis (1977) studied working-class lads who resisted school culture.
• Hall and Jefferson (1976) viewed youth subcultures like skinheads as a form of resistance.

Folk Culture

• Folk culture is created by local communities, rooted in their experiences and traditions.
• It involves active participation, not just consumption.
• Examples include traditional music, songs, and dances passed down generations.
• Nottingham Hill Carnival is an example.

High Culture

• High culture is considered superior, emphasizing lasting artistic and literary value.
• It's often associated with intellectual elites and upper classes.
• Examples include theatre, opera, ballet, jazz, and Shakespeare.

Mass, Popular, and Low Culture

• These terms are often used synonymously, contrasting with high culture.
• "Low culture" is a derogatory term suggesting inferiority.
• "Popular culture" is a less negative alternative.
• Mass culture is a product of industrial societies, commercially produced for profit.

Bourdieu - Marxism

• The dominance of high culture stems from the controlling class imposing "good taste."
• Others are socialized to accept this hierarchy despite engaging in popular culture.

MacDonald

• Criticized mass culture for being inauthentic, contrasting it with folk culture's authenticity.
• Mass culture is seen as commercially driven.

Straniti - Postmodernist

• Argues mass culture has value and deserves study.
• Challenges the notion of a passive mass audience.
• Sees diverse choices and critical responses within mass culture.

Livingstone (1995)

• Studied TV soap operas as popular culture, noting potential societal benefits.

Explore the dynamics of subcultures, folk culture, and high culture through this engaging quiz. Understand how these cultural forms shape identities and resist dominant societal norms while reflecting on their community roots and artistic values. Dive into examples that illustrate these concepts, from punk rock to traditional music.