Although many people have argued that pop culture does not belong in academia, closer examination will show that pop cultures are useful for better understandings connections between the real-world and curriculum, as well as critically studying the underlying assumptions of how individuals’ identities are shaped, and how it influences society.
The studies of pop culture taking place in universities create better understandings and connections between the real-world and the curriculum. When studying something so broad, such as pop culture, it allows all students to become involved in class discussions. Despite differences in individuals’ beliefs and perspectives on pop culture, it still allows a class to discuss topics that would usually be avoided if pop culture was not a significant aspect of society (Hammond 2). “‘[Using pop culture] is a way to integrate critical thought into a medium which students have complete access to… And in which they feel totally comfortable and confident;’” many people believe that academics
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Pop culture evidently influences all aspects of one’s life, such as traditions, history, economics, political view, one’s dislikes, values, and attitudes; pop culture can further influence different genders, age groups, communities, and ethnic groups ("Introduction"). While knowing the causes and effects of the influence of pop culture in society, a class is able to conduct research, draw conclusions, have discussions, analyze, and et cetera. Studying pop culture may help students be more “self-reflective” and “critical of [their] own expectations” (Cooper); “Considerations about sexuality, social propriety and cultural motifs is exposed to pop culture, forcing those watching to face these issues…” (Hammond 2). Part of the university experience is for everyone to form their own opinions while being open-minded of others’