What Doesn’t Count as Popular Culture? A Guide to Non-Examples
Have you ever been stumped by the question: what exactly is popular culture? The answer can sometimes be more complicated than you think. Popular culture refers to the cultural products, practices, and ideas that are most common and widespread in a society, often transmitted through mass media. But what about the things that don’t conform to this definition, the outliers that can be confusing when we try to determine what does count as popular culture? In this article, we’ll explore some non-examples of popular culture to shed light on what popular culture is not and why that matters.
Non-Example 1: High Culture
When we think of popular culture, we often imagine things like blockbuster movies, Top40 music, and viral memes. However, these are not the only cultural products that exist. High culture, also known as elite or fine art, includes forms of artistic expression that are intended for a more select audience and are often associated with more formal or academic institutions like museums and universities. Examples of high culture might include opera, ballet, classical music, and modern art. These forms of culture are not typically considered popular because they are not as widely consumed or appreciated as more mainstream forms of entertainment. Nevertheless, they remain an important part of the cultural landscape and offer a wealth of valuable insights into history, society, and the human condition.
Non-Example 2: Niche Culture
Another non-example of popular culture is niche culture, which refers to cultural products and practices that are tailored to a specific subculture or community. Niche culture is often characterized by its exclusivity and small size, making it less well-known or recognizable to the wider public. Some examples of niche culture might include fanfiction, cosplay, or collectible card games like Magic: The Gathering. While these forms of culture may have dedicated and enthusiastic followings, they do not necessarily have the same mass appeal or recognition as more mainstream forms of popular culture.
Non-Example 3: Folk Culture
Folk culture, also known as traditional or vernacular culture, is another non-example of popular culture. Folk culture encompasses the cultural products and practices of various groups or communities that are rooted in their history, traditions, and everyday life. Examples of folk culture might include folktales, crafts, or regional cuisines. While folk culture can be incredibly rich and diverse, it often remains localized or is passed down through oral tradition rather than mass media. As a result, it is not always immediately recognizable or accessible to people outside of the community in question.
Why Understanding Non-Examples of Popular Culture Matters
It’s important to recognize that popular culture is not a fixed or static concept. What counts as popular culture may change over time, and there will always be forms of cultural expression that don’t neatly fit into this category. By understanding what doesn’t count as popular culture, we can better appreciate the complexities and nuances of cultural production and consumption. We can also gain a deeper appreciation for the diversity of human creativity and expression, beyond the narrow confines of what is most visible or commercially successful. So the next time someone asks you to define popular culture, remember that the answer might not be as straightforward as you thought.
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