Assignment 1-4-6
Tea
Phenomenon: Theories
Julie Kemi
HUMN240 – F2WW
8/05/2012
Stephanie
Bost - Chi
Tea Phenomenon
Theories
It
is my belief that pop culture and the tea phenomenon relate in a number of
different theories. The myth of mass culture, in part, influences the tea
phenomenon. The theory of mass society associates crisis and weak traditions such
as family and religion. While this theory does not support the traditional
aspects of tea in British culture, it does support the growing support for tea
drinkers in the United States. Mass media does not always require traditional
support. Some individuals believe that mass media inevitably degrades higher
forms of culture, bringing about a general decline in society.
The
theory of culture industry supports media and mass
marketing. This theory spouts the ideals that cultural products are
commodities that share little or no meaning. The tea phenomenon applies this
application to society in limited ways. The theory of culture industry focuses
on media and mass marketing. Similar to the way Starbucks focuses on marketing
Chi- Tea through its new "tea only" locations.
` The most interesting part of my analysis
took applications of theory and applied it in the marketing of products. The use of society as a commercial prop in the
retail and wholesale industries saddens me. It is very unsettling how
influential leadership and growing industry can manipulate our individual
thoughts and decisions.
I will undoubtedly
make decisions based on my own personal value systems and needs. I think this
pop culture topic has taught me to apply critical thinking to both sides of an
argument. It has opened my eyes to different ideals about commercialization of
products and commodities. I also believe that the theories in popular culture become
essential to promote business in society. Understanding and manipulating the
masses produce a trend that individuals and businesses can follow to keep
order. As much as I loathe manipulation, I believe pop culture has a number of
great advantages to us as individuals.
I wholeheartedly agree, Julie. It is vital to apply your own beliefs and desires to what you decide is in the best interest for yourself rather than rely on the implications of the media. Tea is definitely a widespread phenomenon, and as I have probably mentioned prior, mainly reminds me of England heritage. I am a huge fan of the show "Absolutely Fabulous", and though the two main characters are considered lushes on the program, they still refer to tea on several episodes. I also remember watching "Alice in Wonderland" (the Disney version) and that they mention when she awakes "Oh well, time for a cup of tea". It is interesting how that phenomenon has spread into the United States, as more and more people are ordering tea as a beverage today rather than soft drinks. As usual, great posting. It was to-the-point as well as powerful and poignant!
ReplyDelete