asks that you consider Rivkin and Ryan’s terms, “Culture from Above” and “Culture from Below” (you’ll have to read the piece to see what these terms mean). These terms— “Culture from Above” and “Culture from Below”—can be helpful for understanding the politics of culture even if the terms are problematic.
Present an example of Culture from Below and Culture from Above. When you do, reflect on (write about) the following:
1. Why do you feel that your examples are culture from below and above?
2. What is the “cultural work” being done by both examples?
3. With your other readings in mind—this is important!—briefly consider any potential problems with Rivkin and Ryan’s terms. Can a cultural phenomenon that is said to begin from below, e.g. Hip Hop, retain its agency, authenticity, or radical pulse if, say, that phenomenon gets appropriated, manufactured, and distributed for profit (e.g., by major music or film studios, corporations, and so on)? Reflect on the supposed line that divides below and above culture. Is the division between above and below tenable?
Last Completed Projects
| topic title | academic level | Writer | delivered |
|---|