Philosophy of Mass Culture: Western and Eastern Foundations

Popular culture influences how we communicate, form communities, and make sense of the world. This course provides a clear, accessible overview of the philosophical foundations underlying mass culture in both Western and Eastern traditions. Learners start with basic concepts and key terminology before examining how philosophical frameworks influence modern media franchises, screen adaptations, and fan culture. What you will learn: - Understand foundational terms and major theoretical perspectives on mass culture. - Compare Western and Eastern approaches to narrative, mythology, and media production. - Analyze how media franchises serve as key identity markers in youth culture. - Explore why screen adaptations and visual media often overshadow literature in contemporary society. - Evaluate the role of digital algorithms and online platforms in shaping modern cultural trends. The material begins with core definitions and historical context before progressing to practical analyses of contemporary pop culture phenomena. This course is created for complete beginners interested in media, culture, and philosophy, with no prior knowledge required. Read through the lessons to gain a critical perspective on the media you consume every day.