Theory of Popular Culture

Abstract

Theorizing about popular culture involves facing a significant challenge due to the complexity and ambiguity of the terms “culture” and “popular.” This article addresses the difficulties inherent in formulating a coherent theory about popular culture, considering the influence of ideologies, subjective factors, and historical context. Unlike the natural sciences, where theories can evolve with new discoveries, in the social sciences the multiplicity of perspectives and the influence of power structures further complicate the theoretical process. The article explores how elitist culture has historically dominated, relegating popular culture to a secondary position, often dismissed by the state and the media. Despite these difficulties, it is argued that popular culture, with its diversity and distinctive features, offers a rich area for the study of cultural identity.