Please Read The Following Questions And Answer Them

Please Read The Following Questions And Answer the Questionsthis Unit

Please read the following questions and answer the questions for this unit. This chapter discusses concerns about quality programming in the media and examines two models for assessing culture: 1) Culture as a Skyscraper Model and 2) Culture as a Map. You are asked to identify several television shows that exemplify “quality” programs and “trashy” programs, analyze their characteristics such as plots, subject matter, themes, and characters, and consider whether there are universally trashy or universally in good taste programs. Additionally, reflect on whether Americans are generally perceived as having good taste, and if there is a country or culture that consistently produces tasteful cultural products. Finally, choose which model—Culture as Skyscraper or Culture as Map—resonates more with you and explain why.

Paper For Above instruction

The evaluation of television programming provides a compelling lens through which to explore cultural values and perceptions of taste. Recognizing the contrast between “quality” and “trashy” shows offers insights into societal standards and preferences. For example, shows like “Breaking Bad” are often regarded as high-quality due to their complex characters, compelling plots, and thought-provoking themes. Conversely, reality television programs such as “Keeping Up with the Kardashians” are frequently classified as trashy, characterized by exaggerated drama, superficial content, and a focus on materialism. These characteristics—sophistication in storytelling versus superficial entertainment—help distinguish quality programs from trashy ones.

Certain themes tend to be universally associated with trashy programming, such as sensationalism, explicit content, or excessive gossip, which appeal to base entertainment instincts across cultures. Conversely, universally good taste may be associated with programs that promote cultural literacy, moral reflection, or artistic integrity. However, perceptions of taste are inherently subjective and culturally contingent. For instance, what is considered tasteful in Japanese culture, such as subtle animation or traditional storytelling, may differ significantly from American preferences. Similarly, some critics argue that American “reality TV” or tabloid programs are often viewed as lacking taste internationally.

Regarding the perception of American taste, opinions vary. Some argue Americans tend to have a diverse palate, with a mix of highbrow and lowbrow entertainment, reflecting cultural pluralism. Others believe the proliferation of sensationalist media indicates a preference for superficial content. Globally, countries like Japan or France are often perceived as consistently producing culturally refined and artistic media, aligning more with the “Culture as Skyscraper” model, which emphasizes hierarchical distinctions of cultural value.

The “Culture as Map” model, which sees culture as a fluid, social construct with multiple intersecting meanings, resonates more with contemporary views. It underscores the idea that culture is not fixed or hierarchical but adaptable and subjective, accommodating diverse tastes and regional differences. Personally, I find this model more intuitive because it recognizes the evolving nature of cultural consumption, where boundaries between “quality” and “trash” are often blurred, and taste varies widely among individuals and cultures. This model allows for a more inclusive understanding of cultural expression, acknowledging that what may be trashy to one may be regarded as meaningful to another.

References

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