Is Pop Culture Good For You?

What is Pop Culture?

    Pop Culture is defined as modern popular culture transmitted via the mass media and aimed particularly at younger people. Pop Culture affects us all, physically and mentally, whether you want it to or not. Everyone knows what Pop culture is and everyone collectively agrees to follow along with it. This brings the question that society continuously tries to answer: Is Pop Culture good for you? There are many schools of thought on if Pop Culture is more harmful or beneficial for you. I believe there is no set answer, the answer is dependent on the way it is used. 

Social Media's Role

    

Social media is a main source for Pop Culture. There are constantly new trends, styles, and influencers that provide content which is consumed by the masses each day. Apps and companies have created guidelines to help filter the content posted however some harmful ideas come through. This can lead to harmful impressions on young, growing minds. Unrealistic beauty standards and the focus on self image is a huge issue brought up by social media. It is nice to see a post that is relatable, but when promoting harmful suggestions it causes more danger than comfort. A positive aspect of social media is the ability to connect with people from around the world and the ability to relate to them. However, a negative aspect is the disconnect that occurs with in person contact. When everything is accessible at the touch of the screen it's hard to push for physical action. For example, activism and the risks historic heroes have taken to create our free world are not comparable at all to the “activists” in today’s society. This article, written by Malcolm Gladwell, “Small Change: Why the Revolution Will Not Be Tweeted,” brings light to the negative effects in how technology has decreased the rigor of rebellion. The chance of risk has scared people away from standing up for what is right. It has been limited down to reposting articles and making other small efforts for show. However, the magic of Pop culture should not be ignored. Everyone can find something they like or relate to. It creates a sense of community. It keeps long distance relationships alive and can inspire people to do what they want to do. 

What Should You Do?

    When consuming Pop Culture, consumer’s should not take everything as fact. Social media is a highlight reel and very biased view on situations. If the intention is to be inspired and connect with others, Pop Culture is a very helpful tool. But, if the intention is to get informed on world issues or it begins to affect the viewer negatively that's when it should be put away. It is what you make of it. Pop culture is one of the most prevalent and influential normalities in today’s society. So the only way to limit the negative impacts is to bring awareness to one self. If something is bringing up unfavorable feelings, turn it off and release any energy given towards it. Easier said than done, yet to bring that bit of awareness when being attached to screens can cause the start of productive change.