Contemporary Era

Dictionary.com defines “pop culture” as “cultural activities or commercial products reflecting, suited to, or aimed at the tastes of the general masses of people.” In other words, pop culture reflects a phenomenon of prevalent happenings—such as music or art—that which define the zeitgeist of society. For example, famous celebrities, such as Britney Spears, Christina Aguliera, and boy bands such as NSYNC, have demonstrated this pop culture phenomenon. Not only through the up-beat pop tunes, but through the way audiences have received music does this reflect pop culture as music is prominently found in society; cars, elevators, and even stores, music can be easily found and is thus recognized as a key in pop culture. In addition, the contemporary era symbolized the deterioration of social classism, allowing every level of society to solely enjoy this form of entertainment rather than focusing on affluence. The Contemproary movement was demarcated by the idea that every person should be able to express his or her emotions as he or she pleases. Moreover, because the Contemporary Era was, and continues to be, one of freedom of expression, pop culture perfectly illustrates its interpretive, non-conformist ideals. Short for popular, the “pop” in pop culture, is easily found in all forms of media and various mediums to reflect the zeitgeist of contemporary society.