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Outline and explain two ways that new media may be changing popular culture - AQA - A-Level Sociology - Question 19 - 2021 - Paper 2
Question 19
Outline and explain two ways that new media may be changing popular culture. [10 marks]
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Outline and explain two ways that new media may be changing popular culture - AQA - A-Level Sociology - Question 19 - 2021 - Paper 2
Step 1
Participatory Culture
Answer
One significant way new media is changing popular culture is through the development of a participatory culture. In this environment, consumers are no longer passive recipients of media but active participants. Platforms like social media empower individuals to create and disseminate content, blurring the lines between producers and consumers. For example, platforms like YouTube allow anyone to produce videos that can go viral, influencing mainstream culture and trends in a way that was not possible before.
Step 2
Globalization of Culture
Answer
Another way in which new media is reshaping popular culture is through the globalization of cultural content. New media facilitates the rapid sharing of ideas and practices across borders, which can undermine traditional local and national cultures. This results in a homogenization of culture, where global trends may overshadow local traditions. For instance, streaming services like Netflix have introduced diverse international content to global audiences, thereby influencing viewer preferences and cultural narratives.