Unpacking the 4 Characteristics of Popular Culture: What Makes It So Appealing?
Popular culture is everywhere around us irrespective of age, sex, and location. People are always drawn to what is popular or trending, no matter how trivial it might seem. But have you ever wondered what makes popular culture so appealing? What gives it the power to wield such a strong influence over our lives?
In this article, we will explore the four characteristics that make up popular culture and why it attracts us so much.
Characteristic 1: Ubiquity
The first characteristic of popular culture is its ubiquity. It is everywhere and is easily accessible to anyone with a television, internet connection, or smartphone. From social media platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok to reality TV shows, music, and movies, popular culture is always present and making a statement.
This mass appeal of popular culture stems from the fact that it is a reflection of society at a particular moment in time. It captures the essence of the people and gives them a voice. Whether it’s the latest celebrity gossip or a new meme, people want to be a part of the conversation, and popular culture gives them that opportunity.
Characteristic 2: Trendsetting
The second characteristic of popular culture is trendsetting. Popular culture has the power to set trends and dictate what’s popular and what’s not. People look to popular culture to know what to wear, what to watch, and who to follow. It is a source of inspiration, and people want to emulate what they see and hear, making it a significant influence on their lifestyle choices.
Take the example of music. A popular song can single-handedly make an artist, and the same goes for fashion. A celebrity sporting a new style can trigger a fashion trend that can sweep across the world, making them the new go-to trendsetters.
Characteristic 3: Rapid Changes
The third characteristic of popular culture is its everchanging nature. Popular culture is continuously evolving, and what’s popular today may not be tomorrow. This rapid change feeds into our desire to stay updated and not be left out of the loop. People always want to be in the know about what’s new and happening.
Social media platforms like Twitter and Instagram have made it easier for people to stay updated on the latest trends and happenings, making popular culture more accessible than ever before.
Characteristic 4: Commercialism
The fourth and final characteristic of popular culture is commercialism. Popular culture is a massive money-making machine, with billions of dollars being generated every year. From merchandise and ticket sales to advertising revenue, popular culture has a significant influence on the economy.
Companies often use popular culture to sell their products, with celebrities endorsing brands and products to leverage their fan following. For instance, marketing teams often partner with musicians to promote their products to a specific demographic, making popular culture an effective marketing tool.
Conclusion
In conclusion, popular culture is appealing because of its quasi-reflective nature, trendsetting tendencies, constantly changing forms, and commercial viability. But at the core of it all, popular culture is a form of entertainment and expression that brings people together.
It is an ever-present part of our lives, serving as a source of inspiration, comfort, and entertainment. As society continues to evolve, so will popular culture, creating new waves of influence, trends, and entertainment.
