Warm-Up # 22 1. Which of the following characteristics is more typical of a popular culture than a folk culture? A. It results in a more uniform landscape. B. It is likely to be derived from physical conditions. C. It diffuses slowly from its point of origin. D. It has an anonymous origin. 2. The choice of clothing in Western countries is strongly influenced by A. level of income. B. occupation. C. knowledge of fashion elsewhere. D. all of the above 3. Rapid diffusion of popular culture A. Is an example of relocation diffusion. B. depends on modern communication systems. C. encourages people in different places to adopt different customs.

Why Is Popular Culture Widely Distributed Popular culture varies more in time than in place. Like folk culture, it may originate in one particular place, but in contrast, it diffuses rapidly.

Globalization of Soccer Increasing leisure time contributed to the spread of the sport, but the most important distribution factor was the growth of the British Empire. Organization of the sport by the formation of an association of several British football clubs, in order to standardize the rules, marks the transition from folk to popular culture.

Diffusion of Soccer/Football First played outside of England in the 1870’s by Dutch students who had been in Britain. Spread throughout the world to places as diverse as Russia, India, Latin America, and Africa. Never took hold in the U.S., whose version was closer to the English variation – Rugby, and was spread by college play. World Cup – viewed by more spectators than any other event in history.

Sports in Popular Culture Common element in professional sports is the willingness of people throughout the world to pay for the privilege of viewing, in person or on TV. Cricket – Britain and former British colonies Hockey – Colder Climates Wushu/Martial Arts (archery, fencing, wrestling and boxing) – China Lacrosse – Iroquois Confederation of Six Nations, United States, Canada, England and Australia.

Rapid Diffusion of Clothing Styles Clothing habits are a good example of how popular culture can be spread with little regard for physical features. In the Developed Countries of North America and Western Europe, clothing generally reflects occupations, not physical environments. Income is a second influence in MDC’s. Women’s clothing changes seasonally, and income levels dictate how often people are able to update their wardrobe. Improved communications have permitted the rapid diffusion of clothing styles. Globalization has spread indigenous clothing styles to MDC’s.

Jeans Important symbol of the diffusion of Western popular culture. Started in the United States, and spread rapidly after the late 1960’s, representing youthfulness. Second-hand Levi’s sell in Asia for $100 to a $1000 US Regional Preferences Asia –button fly West Coast – button fly East Coast – zipper fly USSR – The spread of jeans by diplomats, is considered to be a major representation of the consumer problems that brought down communism Levi’s in Moscow $50

Popular Food Customs Consumption of alcohol and snack items are characteristic of MDC’s. Choices and consumption rates vary regionally, some are based on preferences, while other choices are made because of cultural backgrounds.

Wine Production Good example of how the environment can play a major role in the distribution of culture. The distinctive character of wine derives from unique combinations of soil, climate, and other physical characteristics. Temperate climates, hillside locations, and trace elements give wine its unique characteristics. World’s finest wines are usually labeled by the origin, due to the unique qualities that are produced. Bordeaux Champagne Burgundy

Wine Production Wine experts can determine the precise origin of a wine just by tasting it (as can coffee experts). Wines are also categorized by Estate Year Grape variety Distribution can be limited by cultural values