When we hear the term popular culture, what do we think of and why? What is your popular culture?
In the next few weeks we will be studying popular culture and the media. We will ask hard questions of this media and we will view it through a critical, analytical lens. In doing so, we will attempt to discover (un-mask) the messages behind this media while considering the implications of these messages on us as a culture. It will be your job to look closely and think critically about this media. You will select a specific pop culture text to critique in your next paper. Begin considering what that text might be.
Today's assignment is to watch (finish watching) a video lecture about the way advertising distorts our perception of women. Jean Kilbourne is a scholar who has spent her life examining advertising and thinking thoughtfully about its messages. Her Killing Us Softly video series criticizes (or closely examines and critiques) the way women are represented in advertising.
As you watch the video, take notes on the content. For homework, identify and write out 3-5 specific examples and/or quotes from the video that sparked your interest or rattled some thought. Write a well-developed blog about your responses to the video (equivalent to 1-2 pages typed, double-spaced). Title this blog: Pop Culture Critique #1: Kilbourne. What is Kilbourne's message? In what way does she critique the culture of advertising? Do you agree with Kilbourne's message? Is this a message we should pay attention to? How does this media or popular culture affect our personal culture?
In addition, do some of your own investigating. Becoming a critic of popular culture means paying close attention to the media that we see and hear each day. Spend the next few days paying close attention to advertisements. What do you see? Find a print or video advertisement and post it in your blog. Add your own written critique of this ad.
We will discuss this blog and your connection in class on Friday.
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