Exploring the Distinctions: High Culture vs. Popular Culture
As humans, culture defines us and the things we do. It influences our beliefs, values, and behaviors that, in turn, result in the creation of different types of culture. However, the most prevalent types of culture that have come to be recognized and distinguished are: High culture and Popular culture. While they may seem alike, they possess very distinct characteristics, which this article aims to explore.
What is High Culture?
High culture is often referred to as the intellectual culture and encompasses the creations, artifacts, and products generated by intellectual elites in society. It is the culture of the privileged, the refined, and the educated, often valued for its sophistication and beauty, making it somewhat inaccessible to the general public.
In general, high culture content manifests as dramatic works, classic literature, ballet, paintings, opera, and symphonies. It is often created on a large-scale budget and is not for the masses. It is a place for niche audiences and in high demand in critical circles.
What is Popular Culture?
Popular culture is, in essence, the opposite of high culture. It is created, produced, and enjoyed by and for the majority, often in the form of entertainment. It is the culture for the people, representing the mass culture that the general public consumes and produces.
Some forms of pop culture include blockbuster movies, reality TV, pop music, and comic books. These forms of entertainment usually have mass appeal, making them easy to understand and appreciate. Pop culture is often inexpensive to produce, making it more accessible to the masses, which usually gives rise to a wide range of audiences.
Key Differences between High Culture and Popular Culture
It is important to note that high culture and popular culture are not interchangeable terms. They have the following differences:
Audience
One significant difference between high culture and popular culture is the audience that consumes them. High culture is designed for a niche audience of intellectual elites, whereas popular culture is created for everyone.
Accessibility
High culture is usually inaccessible to the general public due to factors like expensive admission fees, elitist tastemakers, and high-end audiences. Pop culture, on the other hand, is very accessible due to its low production costs and mass appeal.
Value
High culture is often perceived as more valuable than popular culture due to its intellectual and sophisticated nature. It is viewed as more meaningful, timeless, and aesthetically pleasing, whereas popular culture is often perceived as shallow and crazy.
Originality
High culture is often associated with originality, whereas popular culture borrows heavily from existing ideas and runs with the themes in imagination.
Why is Understanding the Difference Important?
Understanding the differences between high culture and popular culture allows us to appreciate both of them better. It helps us identify ourselves in society and even judge the things we consume. High culture and pop culture play a crucial role in shaping our sense of identity, and understanding their significance helps us carry on the cross-culture discussions necessary for any society’s evolution.
Conclusion
In summary, high culture and popular culture are two distinct forms of culture that encompass intellectual works and mass-produced entertainment, respectively. While high culture is usually associated with the elite, sophistication, and originality, popular culture is associated with mass appeal, accessibility, and entertainment value. Understanding the distinction between the two is essential for appreciating both, gaining a better understanding of ourselves, and cross-culture exchange.
