Popüler Kültür Çalışmalarındaki Tanımlama ve Sınıflandırma Sorunları Üzerine Popular Misconceptions: On questions of definition and classification within popular culture studie

First of all, the view that conceptions of culture, mass culture and popular culture, and their use as alternative to each other cause theoretical problems in academic studies on popular culture is emphasized. Following various definitions, it is attempted to draw boundaries for the foregoing concepts. Additionally, in light of the definitions reached, it is contended that the notion of mass culture is associated with social conformity in social psychological terms and whether a category of “popular culture” exists or not is discussed. Finally, the role of mass media in forming popular esthetics and attitudes and its intensity are analyzed as a consequence of the discussion.