Philippine Popular Culture Lecture Notes

Introduction

• Welcome and overview of the discussion on Philippine Popular Culture.
• Importance of student participation through chat and comment section.
• Aim for total participation and attention during the course.

Course Overview

• School Year: 2022-2023
• Course Type: Jack Elect 1 or 2.
• Subject: Philippine Pop Culture under Social Sciences.

Definition of Popular Culture

• Definition will be discussed throughout the lecture.
• Students are asked to reflect on images shared related to popular culture.
  • Examples include sports, entertainment, technology, and social media.
  • Importance of interaction through chat box for grading participation.

Key Questions for Discussion

1. What comes to mind when you hear the word "Culture"?

   • Responses include:
     • Way of living
     • Traditions
     • Beliefs and practices

2. What about the term "Popular"?

   • Responses include:
     • Present
     • Associated with trends (K-pop, P-pop).

3. Combining "Popular" and "Culture"

   • Understanding that popular culture is a mix of common cultural practices in society.

Branches of Social Sciences Relevant to Culture

• Sociology:

  • Study of human society and relationships.
  • Emphasizes the role of history in understanding present culture.
  • Society and culture are interdependent; one cannot exist without the other.

• Anthropology:

  • Study of human beings and their cultures.
  • Evolution of humans and cultural practices.
  • Key figures:
    • Edward Tylor (1st professor of anthropology in Oxford)
    • Franz Boas (1st professor in the U.S.)
  • Ethnography: systematic study of people and cultures.

Important Concepts

• Popular Culture Definition:

  • Traditions and material culture consumed by majority in society.
  • Includes media objects such as music, art, literature, and entertainment.
  • Coined in the mid-19th century, contrasts with official state culture.
  • Often viewed as superficial or less artistic.

• Impact of Pop Culture:

  • Influences societal attitudes and everyday lives.
  • Can be defined in various ways across contexts.

Additional Definitions of Popular Culture

• John Storey's Definitions:
  1. Culture widely favored or liked by many.
  2. What remains after defining high culture; often viewed as inferior.
  3. Commercial objects produced for mass consumption, used by elites to suppress the masses.

Conclusion

• Understanding the relationship between culture, society, and the impact of popular culture is essential for grasping Philippine Pop Culture.
• Engage with the material and participate actively in discussions.