Popular culture: The symbol of globalization

• Main Author: Lim, Cristina Teresa N.
• Format: text
• Published: Animo Repository 2013
• Subjects: Popular culture; Globalization; Cultural pluralism; Arts and Humanities
• Online Access: https://animorepository.dlsu.edu.ph/faculty_research/5955
• Institution: De La Salle University

Popular culture symbolizes globalization. Homogenization and diversification of culture are the results of globalization. Homogenization of culture is a result of cultural imperialism where the dominant countries imposed upon other countries their beliefs, values and behaviors. On the contrary, globalization would bring a diversified culture because it offers opportunities for cultural exchange that can help promote tolerance and diversity. Cultural globalization may result to paid globalization of beliefs, values and behaviors. These include the loss of indigenous cultural heritage, cultural memory, national cultural sovereignty and cultural identities. In connection to development, Ronghua (2004) believed that cultural diversification will ultimately promote the overall progress of human society while Hu (2000) postulated the cultural heritage conservation contributes to economic growth, improves effectiveness of development efforts and enhances citizen’s quality of life and civic engagement. Moreover, the World Bank (1998) concluded that sustainable development could be achieved by nurturing the diversity of belief system and traditions. In order to have a comprehensive understanding of cultural globalization in developing countries, there is a need to examine if global culture promote or impeded the development process in the Third World and developing countries. Secondly, indicators on the degree of cultural globalization (homogenization or diversification) should be established to be able to compare the impact of globalization to the culture of the Third and First world countries. Lastly, UNESCO (1998) participatory research method should be adapted in order to ensure optimal involvement of those who are subject/object of research.