Exploring John Storey’s 6 Definitions of Popular Culture: A Comprehensive Guide
Popular culture has become an integral part of modern society, encompassing various aspects of our everyday lives. It can range from music, movies, television shows, fashion, and even social media platforms. The subject of popular culture has been extensively researched over the years, with scholars and experts providing different definitions to explain its complexities. One of the most prominent is John Storey’s six definitions of popular culture, which we will explore in this article.
Defining Popular Culture
Before we dive into Storey’s definitions, it is essential to understand what popular culture means. According to the Oxford English Dictionary, popular culture refers to “culture based on the tastes of ordinary people, especially through entertainment such as music, film, and television, rather than serious or educational content.” It is, therefore, a reflection of the attitudes, values, and beliefs of a given society.
Storey’s Six Definitions
John Storey is a British cultural theorist who has contributed significantly to understanding the complexities of popular culture. In his book, Cultural Theory and Popular Culture, he provides six definitions of popular culture:
1. Folk Culture
Storey defines folk culture as “the oral traditions, stories, beliefs, and customs of the unlettered or uneducated people.” This definition refers to cultural practices that are passed down from generation to generation through word of mouth. Examples of folk culture include folktales, proverbs, riddles, and traditional practices.
2. Mass Culture
Mass culture refers to the cultural products produced for mass consumption. Storey argues that mass culture emerged in the 20th century with the rise of mass media such as radio, television, and cinema. These media were used to disseminate cultural products on a large scale, with the aim of appealing to a wide audience.
3. Popular Culture
Popular culture is a term used to describe cultural products that have widespread appeal and consumption. Storey argues that popular culture has become a dominant cultural force in contemporary society, displacing high culture and folk culture. Examples of popular culture include television shows, music, movies, novels, and fashion.
4. Official Culture
Official culture refers to the cultural practices and products sanctioned by the authorities of a given society. These include cultural events organized by the government, museums, and art galleries. Storey argues that official culture is often used to legitimize a particular ideology or to promote national identity.
5. Global Culture
Global culture refers to cultural products that have a global reach and appeal. Storey argues that the globalization of culture has been facilitated by advances in communication technology and transportation, leading to the homogenization of global culture. Examples of global culture include Hollywood movies, fast food chains, and social media platforms.
6. Subcultures
Subcultures refer to cultural practices and products that exist outside the mainstream. Storey argues that subcultures arise as a response to the dominant culture, which may be oppressive or exclusionary. Examples of subcultural groups include goths, punks, and hippies.
Key Takeaways
In conclusion, John Storey’s six definitions of popular culture provide a comprehensive framework for understanding the multifaceted nature of popular culture. From the oral traditions of folk culture to the global impact of popular culture, it is clear that cultural practices and products play a significant role in shaping our worldviews and identities. As we continue to explore and consume popular culture, it is crucial to consider the social, political, and economic contexts in which it is produced and consumed.
