June 9th, 2010 – Mix It Up (Ch. 1 – 4)

1. Summary

Mix It Up is a modern book focusing on popular culture and its influence on society throughout history and in today’s world. Chapter one discusses how music (citing specific songs) has evolved throughout history from different genres to current top hits. It also discusses how to go about defining culture and different varieties of consumers. Chapter two discusses looking at the mass media and popular culture through the functionalist perspective. An example of this is by looking at the obsession with celebrity couples and cheating. Grazian argues that we are obsessed and like to talk about such issues because it frees us from discussing our own private relationship details while still discussing our stances on touchy subjects such as this without embarrassing or displaying any personal information. Chapter three analyzes the mass media and popular culture through the critical approach. The critical approach focuses on obsession of the cartoon characters, musical artists, etc as dominate and irresistible form of culture. Here, Grazian discusses how large firms such as Disney own many other industries (ESPN, Miramax Films, etc) own and produce the majority of mass media. Chapter four analyzes popular culture through the interaction approach. The interaction approach emphasizes the effect of the “grape vine” or the passing of “information” (can be correct or just gossip) from person to person.

2. What I learned/What I found interesting:

I really enjoyed this reading assignment because I really admire how the author is able to grasp in so many directions of media while explaining his various analysis methods. I really found it interesting how each of the methods he talks about seems to explain why America (and the world) is obsessed with pop culture. I really enjoyed reading chapter 2 which Grazian mentions how pro sports teams create a sense of unity in a large area. I have always felt this about where I was from (Philly!!!) and cannot agree with him more.

3. Discussion Point:
Do you have a favorite analysis method that Grazian talked about that explains the public’s obsession with media? Or maybe it is not fair to call it an obsession – rather I will say the relationship between society and pop culture