High Culture vs Popular Culture in the 21st Century
In the 21st century, we have witnessed a divide between high culture and popular culture. The two forms of culture are vastly different from each other and often come into conflict.
High culture usually refers to the types of cultural works that are deemed to be “intellectual” or “elitist.” These may include classical music, literature, visual arts, theater, and opera. High culture is usually associated with formal training, intellectual pursuits, and cultural refinement.
On the other hand, popular culture is usually associated with mass media, social media, entertainment, and consumerism. Popular culture includes music, movies, television shows, video games, social media trends, and any content that is easily accessible to the general public. Popular culture is often seen as “anti-intellectual” or “low-brow.”
The division between high culture and popular culture can be traced back to the 18th century, when Enlightenment thinkers argued that there should be a separation between “high culture” and “popular culture.” However, in the 21st century, the lines between the two forms of culture have become increasingly blurred.
While high culture has always been associated with cultural elites, the rise of new technologies, such as social media, has enabled popular culture to gain a much larger audience. Furthermore, many artists today are creating works that blend elements of high and popular culture. A good example of this is Hamilton, the Broadway musical that incorporates elements of hip hop and rap into a historical theme.
While the divide between high culture and popular culture is still evident, there is a growing recognition that the two forms of culture are not mutually exclusive. In fact, many artists are finding that they can create works that appeal to both high and popular culture audiences.
In conclusion, the divide between high culture and popular culture is a complex issue that is still being debated. While the two forms of culture may seem vastly different, there are many examples of works that successfully blend elements of both. As our world becomes increasingly connected and technologically advanced, it is likely that we will continue to see a blurring of traditional cultural boundaries.
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