How is the “stuff” of our daily lives considered popular culture?
What does the exploration of creation, communication, and consumption of objects reveal about cultural trends and individual identities?
What is the relationship between material culture and the culture industries?
Give an example of creation out of nature and creation out of culture. Which do we see more of in society today? How is creation out of culture an example of poaching?
Suggested Readings
Daniel Miller, Stuff
Henry Glassie, Material Culture
Sample Assignments/Activities
Have students record their meals over a day or two and analyze them through the lens of foodways. Or, have students host a potluck bringing in dishes which represent their identities.
Have students analyze their dorm rooms through the contexts of creation, consumption, and communication.
Have students work in groups and analyze each other’s clothing.
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