When asked to define popular culture, one might think it as a simple task. However, it is quite complex, not definable in one or even two words as it represents, collectively, everything we come into contact with, experience, live, taste and view on a daily basis. Our favorite music, TV show, fashion, media, our thoughts or perceptions, and many other things are part of popular culture. For instance, Facebook is part of our popular culture. Popular culture embodies our needs and desires, our beliefs, and our attitudes. It is in a sense what we prefer today versus 30 or even 15 years ago. Thus, it changes from day to day, month to month, and year to year. It shapes who we are.
An understanding of popular culture helps one to understand the complexity of a person’s identity, morals, values, goals, perceptions, feelings, and actions. Once we get a handle on this, we can then begin to develop a working relationship with the individual. Pop culture allows us to connect in many different ways, and is often the focus of many conversations. It is necessary for top level managers to be aware of popular culture in order to keep up with supply and demand, in order to sustain profitability, and in order to contend with its competitors.
In today’s society, there are many pop culture artifacts from which to choose. One that comes to my mind is the social network, Facebook. Facebook essentially is a means of connecting with friends, family, co-workers, etc. The website allows you to create a personal profile, add photos, add friends, and exchange messages. In addition, you may join groups of interest, or create a group of your own. I joined Facebook to get in touch with some of my old friends and classmates. It is a great way to network.
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Hi Tynisha - I have seven nieces and nephews with whom I spent so much time with when they were babies then little kids. As they became teenagers, I wanted to stay connected with them and so I have a Facebook account. Of course, I waited until I was in school to do this and have not had any time to spend in Facebook ! I have found, however, how invaluable this network has become in the business world. So many companies have been able to reach new demographics they probably were not able to reach before. Companies also use Facebook to get the consumers ideas and opinions that keep these organizations competitive. We have a Facebook page at the company I work for - we have to stay in tune with the masses. I look forward to having more time to explore Facebook.
ReplyDeleteHi Tynisha - I have always associated the Kentucky Derby with the elite - rich people who dress up and drink mint juleps to watch a horse race that lasts two minutes. As you stated, if you see the twin spires you know it's all about the Derby. I can think of quite a few movies that have some scenes showing the twin spires.
ReplyDeleteStarbucks is another icon known globally. I am not a fan of their coffee, but I love the idea of a comfortable place to go and sit and relax with friends. No matter where you are, if you see a Starbucks, you just have to go in.
As a breast cancer survivor, I was particularly drawn to the pink ribbon, another universal icon. The ribbon is actually used to signify many other causes, i.e. the yellow ribbon that supports our troops. Once again, no matter where you are, you recognize the pink ribbon and know what it means.